<p>To address the computational challenges in cable pre-tensioning force optimization for cable-stayed bridges, this paper presents a novel simplified modeling approach. The proposed method models half of the deck and one of the towers independently. In the proposed method, cable forces are applied directly instead of explicitly modeling the cables. Moreover, the optimization is performed by minimizing cable strain as the objective function rather than traditional optimization methods that rely on structural deformations, providing a more direct and efficient optimization strategy. This novel simplification significantly reduces the computational costs and design time. The effectiveness of the method is demonstrated through a case study on the Lali cable-stayed bridge in Khuzestan, Iran, where results were validated against a reference model. Employing particle swarm optimization algorithm to minimize cables’ strain values, the simplified model achieved comparable pre-tensioning forces while reducing optimization time by 69%. Additionally, using cable strain as the design variable resulted in a 7.3 up to 10.2% reduction in total cable weight, equivalent to saving over 10.3 up to 15 tons of high-strength steel, respectively. This reduction addresses both environmental benefits and economic advantages. The substantial improvement in computational efficiency, with minimal loss of accuracy, makes the proposed method valuable for preliminary design of large cable-stayed bridges. By enabling more efficient exploration of design alternatives, this approach has the potential to streamline the early stages of bridge development and contribute to more cost-effective designs.</p>