A global analysis of the consolidation of natural clays is realized considering the consolidation process to be a combination of the effects of compressibility and of permeability. The compressibility or stress–strain curve followed is strongly influenced, both in the laboratory andin situ, by the strain rate. The self-boring permeameter appears to be an excellent tool for permeability measurement; however, in homogeneous clays direct measurement in the laboratory also gives representive results. The coefficients of consolidation determined graphically strongly underestimate thein situcoefficient. The consolidation must thus be analysed by considering compressibility and permeability parameters measured separately.Key words: consolidation, clay, compressibility, permeability.