Abstract In this paper, natural frequency based forward and inverse methods are proposed for identifying multiple cracks in beams. Forward methods include simplified definition of the natural frequency drops caused by the cracks. The ratios between natural frequencies obtained from multi-cracked and un-cracked beams are determined by an approach that uses the local flexibility model of cracks. This approach does not consider nonlinear crack effects that can be easily neglected when the number of cracks is not excessive. In addition, an expression, which removes the necessity of repeating natural frequency analyses, is given for identifying the connection between the crack depths and natural frequency drops. These simplified approaches play crucial role in solving inverse problem using constituted crack detection methodology. Solution needs a number of measured modal frequency knowledge two times more than the number of cracks to be detected. Efficiencies of the methods are verified using the natural frequency ratios obtained by the finite element package. The crack detection methodology is also validated using some experimental natural frequency ratios given in current literature. Results show that the locations and depths ratios of cracks are successfully predicted by using the methods presented.