Identify the object or system being analyzed
Draw a free-body diagram
List all forces acting on the object
Choose a coordinate system
Apply Newton’s second law, ( sum F = ma )
Solve for the unknown tension force
Use ( T = mg ) if the object is hanging at rest
Use ( T = m(g pm a) ) if the object is accelerating vertically
Use force components if the tension is at an angle
Include friction, normal force, or other forces if they are present
For multiple connected objects, write an equation for each object
Solve the system of equations for tension