In order to accurately interpret the results of modal analysis for the purpose of stress mode shapes (SMSs), this work revisits the normalization methods in computational structural dynamics. Firstly, the fundamental principle of structural dynamics analysis and mode of normalization were concisely introduced, and the critical parameters affecting SMSs were discussed. Secondly, the displacement and mass normalizations were applied to the case study of a beam structure. Detailed comparisons were considered between the SMSs and the conventional displacement mode shapes (DMSs) with different normalization methods. Lastly, some important characteristics were obtained. Present study can serve as an ongoing research effort aimed at evaluating both the SMSs and DMSs for future dynamic damage/failure analysis.