This study aims at postulating a simple methodology for predicting the failure modes of monotonically loaded reinforced concrete beam-column joints. All the factors that affect the failure modes of joints are discussed in detail using an experimental database of monotonically loaded exterior beam-column joints. The relative contributions of the strut and truss mechanisms to joint shear strength are determined based on the test results. A simple design equation for the beam longitudinal reinforcement ratio for joints with low, medium and high amount of stirrups is developed. The factors influencing the failure modes of monotonically loaded exterior beam-column joints are investigated in detail. Design charts that predict the failure modes of exterior beam-column connections both with and without stirrups are developed. Experimental data are compared with the design charts. The results show that the simple methodology gives very accurate predictions of the failure modes.