Abstract: The fictitious loads applying at certain control nodes on an auxiliary structure are chosen as the design variables of shape optimization, and structural shape optimization is studied by integrating fictitious variables with the element-free Galerkin method in this paper. The essential boundary condition is imposed by employing a penalty method. Using the direct differential method, the discrete-based numerical method for sensitivity analysis is derived. The derivative of nodal coordinates with respect to the design variables is discussed by means of meshless method. The presented algorithms of shape optimization are easy to understand. The distortion of mesh is avoided, and the optimal model and the process of iteration are simplified, so that the loading characteristic of structures can be at best status. Finally two engineering examples are presented to testify the algorithm proposed, and the optimal shapes of structure are obtained.