The aim of this study was to evaluate and test the limitations of the Indian Standard code 456-2000 related to deep beams, given that the code does not have any provisions regarding the use of the strut and tie method (STM)of design. This study validates the use of truss reinforcement and STM-shaped reinforcements as alternatives to STM design. We conclude that horizontal web reinforcement has a greater impact than vertical shear reinforcement. Deep beams with truss reinforcement and STM-based reinforcement were shown to have the highest shear strength capacity of all the deep beams. In the present study, 21 deep beams were cast and used to analyze their shear and flexural behavior. The specimens were divided into four groups based on length, width and depth, percentage of tension reinforcement, and percentage of horizontal and vertical shear reinforcement. The results revealed that truss-type reinforcement configuration is stronger than vertical shear reinforcement, as the former can resist 20% more load than the latter.