AbstractThe semiloof shell element is the final product of years of research by Professor Irons and his colleagues, during which period the three‐dimensional quadratic displacement isoparametric elements were successively modified into Ahmad thick shells, then eventually, using discrete Kirchhoff hypotheses, into the thin semiloof shells. The retention of curved sides and midside nodes retains the familiar appearance of the two‐ and three‐dimensional isoparametric families, which enables ease of use with existing pre‐ and post‐processing facilities. The element has been widely adapted and used frequently for elastic analyses of wide‐ranging structures. It has also been developed for nonlinear geometric and material behaviour. However, despite the unparalleled generality in performance of this element, some unresolved problem areas still exist, particularly with use of reduced integrating rules. Such problems are highlighted in the paper and rectified where possible. A variety of problems are described to illustrate the above points and other interesting features, such as the treatment of thermal loading, and to emphasize the importance of this contribution to finite element technology by Prof