This paper presents the theory and methodology of a relatively simple and practical modal test approach based on ambient excitation for long span bridges. In this approach
some fundamental parameters
such as mode shapes and their corresponding frequencies as well as the damping ratios
can be found by a fast process of spectra analysis of the measured response signal. Also
its results are direct and reliable. The successful practices of the modal test on Guangdong Jinma Cable-stayed Bridge shows that the method is valid.