A combined implicit-explicit scheme for the analysis of sheet forming problems has been proposed in this work. In the finite-element simulation of sheet metal forming processes, the robustness and stability of computation are important requirements, since the computation time and convergency become major points of consideration in addition to the solution accuracy, due to the complexity of the geometry and boundary conditions. The implicit scheme employs a more reliable and rigorous scheme in considering the equilibrium at each step of deformation, whilst in the explicit scheme the problem of convergency is eliminated at the cost of solution accuracy. The explicit approach and the implicit approach have both merits and demerits. In order to combine the merits of these two methods, a step-wise combined implicit-explicit scheme has been developed. In the present work, the rigid-plastic finite-element method using bending energy augmented membrane elements (BEAM) is employed for computation. Computations are carried out for some typical sheet forming examples by implicit, explicit and combined implicit-explicit schemes, including the deep drawing of an oil pan, a front fender and a fuel tank. From the comparison between the methods the advantages and disadvantages of the methods are identified and discussed. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.