An accessible, clear, concise, and contemporary course in geotechnical engineering, this key text: * strikes a balance between theory and practical applications for an introductory course in soil mechanics * keeps mechanics to a minimum for the students to appreciate the background, assumptions and limitations of the theories * discusses implications of the key ideas to provide students with an understanding of the context for their application * gives a modern explanation of soil behaviour is presented particularly in soil settlement and soil strength * offers substantial on-line resources to support teaching and learning