The finite element method is a highly efficient and commonly used numerical calculation method. In 1965, the term ' finite element ' first appeared. After more than 30 years of development history, the theory and algorithm have been increasingly improved. Nowadays, finite element is widely used in engineering. This paper first introduces the common knowledge of finite element and introduces the common problems in finite element. Secondly, it introduces the steps of finite element solution and its application in engineering. Finally, it gives the application of two‐dimensional foundation pit in finite element under GTS NX software.