A cantilever beam is a rigid structural element that extends horizontally and is supported at only one end. It can be formed as a beam, plate, truss, or slab, and is often used in construction to support balconies, roofs, and other overhangs. Cantilever construction allows overhanging structures without additional support, and can add a unique beauty to the structure. Cantilever beams can be made of concrete or steel, and are usually anchored to a vertical support. They can be subjected to point load, uniform load, or varying load, and when subjected to a structural load at its far, unsupported end, the cantilever carries the load to the support where it applies a shear stress and a bending moment. Cantilevers deflect more than most types of beams since they are only supported from one end, which means there is less support for the load to be transferred. The upper half of the thickness of a cantilever is subjected to tensile stress while the lower half to compressive stress, thus, eliminating deflection. A cantilever beam is usually modeled with the left end being the support and the right end being the cantilevered end. Cantilever beams are widely used in the construction of bridges, towers, and buildings, and can provide them with a modern, aesthetic charm.