Abstract:Based on the review of the concept of total strength Su and the principle of “ method”, it is pointed out that directly substituting the strength parameters of ccu and φcu by triaxial consolidated undrained shear test, and the strength parameters of ccq and φcq by direct shear test into Rankine’s earth pressure is a uncorrected analysis method. It results in the misleading of the application of the total stress analysis method. According to the principle of the two kinds of test, the formulations of total strength Su using the strength parameters of ccu,φcu, and ccq,φcq are derived. Then, according to the principle of “ method”, correct earth pressure equations applied to unloading condition in excavation are presented. Based on the new equations, the analysis methods given in several domestic standards or specifications are discussed. Finally, different kinds of strength parameters in earth pressure analysis are evaluated with analysis examples.