The document discusses stress in soils. It defines that soils are made up of solid particles distributed randomly, leaving empty spaces filled with air, water or both. When a foundation is constructed, the stress in the soil below it usually increases depending on the applied load. It is necessary to estimate the net increase in vertical stress caused by the construction of the foundation to calculate settlements. Equations are provided to calculate total stress, water pore pressure and effective stress at different points in a soil profile based on soil type, moisture content, depth and unit weight. Examples are included to demonstrate calculating stresses at various points in given soil profiles.