A knowledge of the macroscopic properties of soils is essential to the scientist working in the field and to the commercial grower. When an assessment is made in the field, an impression of the soil’s origin, texture and structure is obtained; this information will subsequently provide a useful guide as to the ‘workability’ of a particular field soil and its suitability for particular crops. Similarly, if the land is to be used for amenity, the assessment must indicate its usefulness for particular purposes, such as sports turf.