Abstract: The Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) process is an arc welding process which produces coalescence of metal by heating them with an arc between a covered metal electrode and the work. Shielding is obtained from decomposition of the electrode covering. Pressure is not used. Filler metal is obtained from the electrode. The prediction of the optimal weld deposit area is an important aspect in shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) process as it is related to the strength of the weld. The goal of this research work is to optimize various parameters for Shielded Metal Arc Welding process, including welding voltage, welding current and welding speed by developing a mathematical model for sound weld deposit area of a mild steel specimen. Factorial design approach has been applied for finding the relationship between the various process parameters and weld deposit area. The study revealed that the weld deposit area varies directly with welding voltage and welding current and inverse relationship is found between welding speeds with weld deposit area.