The paper summarises some basic trends in modelling and analysis of refined plate theories not primary from a mathematical aspect but from the viewpoint of engineering application and of an increasing reliability of engineering structure analysis. Shear rigid and shear deformable plate models including shear correction factors or kinematical warping effects can be formulated. An extended two-dimensional theory for transverse shear stress analysis yields improved results, the influence of singularities on the global structure behaviour must be considered and the kinematical degree of freedom of plate models is an important criterion in structural analysis of folded plate structures. Composite materials have become an increasing importance in engineering structures. Multilayered, laminated and sandwich plates are used in aerospace and many other industries. Thin-walled structures composed of composite material have generally a moderate thickness and low transverse stiffness. An adequate modelling of structural plate elements should be given by refined plate theories.