Frequently, the transmission loss of panels must be estimated from limited data for use in design problems. Usually, the panels involve complex constructions where the assumptions of single‐panel theory cannot be reasonably applied. A simplified analysis of the dynamics of some complex panels is presented which leads to a straight‐forward prediction scheme based on modifications of the forced wave transmission loss of a single homogeneous panel. Details of the analysis and comparisons with experiment are provided for the homogeneous panel, two‐ and three‐layer panels, orthortropic panels, and ribbed panels.