Load Combinations for AISC 360 are defined in ASCE 7-05 for both ASD and LRFD. In some cases the notional loads must be included in all combinations, in other cases they need only be combined with the gravity load combinations as explained above in the Notional Loads section. In the load combination generator four options are given for Notional Loads:

• Consider with Combinations containing only gravity loads
• Consider with all Combinations in direction of lateral load
• Consider with all Combinations in all directions
• Do Not Include in any Combinations

It is generally agreed that the Specification does not require that the notional loads need to be considered in all directions (i.e, perpendicular or opposite of the direction of the lateral load case), but only in the same direction as the lateral load case; however it is provided as an option. In the majority of cases the Notional Loads need only be considered with the gravity load cases.