Locate the point of minimum radius (i.e., maximum curvature) of the consolidation curve (Point
A, Fig. 8.2).
2. Draw a line tangent to the consolidation curve at Point A.
3. Draw a horizontal line from Point A.
4. Bisect the angle made by steps 2 and 3.
5. Extend the straight line portion of the virgin consolidation curve up to where it meets the bisect
line. The point of intersection (Point B) of these two lines is the maximum past pressure s′ vm, also
known as preconsolidation pressure s′ p.