This paper presents a practical approach for analysis and improvements of distribution systems. It uses an exact three-phase power now model and solution techniques for analysis of radial distribution systems under various conditions. A visual aided approach is presented for easy understanding and implementation by practicing engineers. The performance of the distribution networks can be improved and the real power losses drastically brought down to a practical minimum by installation of shunt capacitors on the distribution system primary feeders, reallocating the loadings with minimum modifications in the distribution network routing, enhancing the capacity of existing substations or providing new substations, if necessary, at most suitable locations,. The proposed method has been tested to analyze several practical distribution networks of various voltage levels and also having high R/X ratio. The proposed approaches are effectively explained with the results of load-shifting and optimal capacitor-placement with minimum loss criterion on 133-node practical Indian distribution network.