No single design for an RPD can be termed correct for similar clinical situations. Choosing the right one for a particular case is absolutely important for the long term success of treatment. The basic principle is to keep the RPD design as simple as possible without compromising the functional integrity. This presentation is intended to enlighten the basics of designing an RPD. The various clinical aspects starting from surveying through the final design of RPD for common partially edentulous conditions necessitating removable partial dentures are discussed. Special emphasis on the design of distal extension RPD like selection of support , connectors , clasps, indirect retainers and other components are given. A flow chart for arriving at the final logical design of RPD for any clinical situation is presented. A brief outline on obturator design is also discussed.