A progressive damage model based on the three-dimensional Hashin criterion and the cohesive zone method combined with a new stiffness degradation law was developed to predict the damage modes and distribution for laminated composites,which can obtain accurate damage evolution stages.The proposed model was validated by the typical three-point bending experiments referring to ASTM D7264 standard.The results show that the load-displacement response can be well predicted with relative error between numerical and experimental results of stiffness is-0.35%and that of maximum strength is 0.75%.The present model with a set of gradual stiffness degradation rules shows its advantages on predicting the damage evolution stages with relative load and deflection errors of degradation stages of-1.86%and 8.43%for the second degradation stage,and of 12.24%and-1.25%for the third degradation stage.Meanwhile,the predicted damage modes and damage evolution images agree well with the experimental results.