This paper discusses the normal and shear stiffness of the bolted connections, It has shown that the shear stiffness can be determined from the parameters that define the normal stiffness of the machined surfaces. The factors affecting the static stiffness have been investigated. A mathematical analysis of the design parameters have been developed. They are ; normal and shear loads, geometry and dimensions of the two mating surfaces. Determination of the static joint stiffness and some basic optimum values would then be within the reach of the designer.