This document discusses principles of soil densification and compaction. It defines compaction as artificially decreasing soil volume by expelling air from between soil grains, increasing density. The objectives of compaction are to increase shear strength, decrease settlements, control volume change, decrease permeability, and increase bearing capacity and slope stability. Compaction is controlled through tests of water content, density, and penetration resistance. Specifications ensure expected performance in terms of strength, compressibility, permeability, bearing capacity, and drainage.