An introductory exposition of the virtual element method (VEM) is provided. The intent is to make this method more accessible to those unfamiliar with VEM. Familiarity with the finite element method for solving 2D linear elasticity problems is assumed. Derivations relevant to successful implementation are covered. Some theory is covered, but the focus here is on implementation and results. Examples are given that illustrate the utility of the method. Numerical results are provided to help researchers implement and verify their own results.

翻译：本文对虚拟单元方法（VEM）进行了入门性阐述，旨在使不熟悉VEM的读者更容易理解该方法。假设读者已掌握求解二维线弹性问题的有限元方法。文中涵盖了与成功实现相关的推导过程，并涉及部分理论基础，但重点聚焦于实现与结果。通过示例展示了该方法的实用性，同时提供了数值结果，以帮助研究者实现并验证自己的成果。