Abstract: This paper discusses in detail compacted states of common clay (the effect of the structural strength can be negiligible) and clay possessing structural strength. The physical essence of preconsolidation pressure is distinguished from that of structural yield pressure. The difference between them is demonstrated. It is pointed out that improper interpretation their difference may cause froubles in analyzing compactibility of clays and evaluating their mechanical properties. The relationship among structural strength, compactibility , and shear strength of clays is discussed, and some phenomena of pore-water pressure change are presented.