Explain the moment distribution method for analyzing continuous beams.

The moment distribution method is an iterative technique for analyzing indeterminate structures. It involves calculating distribution factors (based on relative stiffness), fixing all joints, calculating fixed-end moments, then releasing joints one at a time to distribute unbalanced moments. Carry-over moments are transmitted to far ends of members. The process continues until moments converge. It's intuitive and was widely used before computers for continuous beams and frames.