This book provides consulting engineers with the practical meaning of the various aspects of soil mechanics. Chen, author of the classic "Foundations of Expansive Soil" provides recent case histories, up-to-date information, and "how to" guidelines. This comprehensive treatment of soil engineering includes: the use of unconfined compression test data, the meaning of consolidation tests, and the practical values of lateral pressure. TOC:Site Investigation.- Subsoil exploration.- Field Observation.- Classification and Identification.- Laboratory Soil Test.- Foundation Design.- Footings on Clay.- Footings on Sand.- Footings on Fill.- Pier Foundations. Laterally loaded piers.- Driven Pile Foundation.- Drainage.- Slope Stability.- Distress Investigation.- Construction.- Legal Aspect.- Report Writing.- Index.