AbstractDeformation capacity and slip range (eventually called “ductility”) of shear connectors are key parameters for the design of shear connectors in composite beams, especially in partial shear connection. Existing design rules require a deformation capacity of at least 6 mm for the use of shear connectors with plastic design methods. This rule is combined with the assumption of rigid‐ideal plastic behaviour of the shear connectors. Still, the real characteristics of most of today's usual shear connectors differ considerably from these assumptions, even more for shear connectors used in combination with metal decking. The paper describes the results of a literature research conducted in order to obtain reliable values for the deformation capacity and the slip range of headed stud shear connectors. Based on these results, advanced design methods can be used to realise composite beams with more realistic lower limits for the degree of partial shear connection and thus better economic performance.