Volume 1 of the two-part work "Geotechnics Compact" provides the essential foundations for the field of soil mechanics in a clear and easily understandable format. The topics, which have been completely revised and updated based on Eurocode 7 and DIN 1054:2010-12, are complemented by various facts, brief information, and formulas, and are explained through case studies. At the end of each chapter, corresponding exercises allow for the verification of acquired knowledge (solutions included). Key points from the content include: classification and naming of soils, water in the subsoil, geotechnical investigations, field soil investigations, laboratory tests, stresses and strains, calculation fundamentals of the new standards, bearing pressure distribution, settlements, earth pressure, foundation failure, slope failure, buoyancy, sliding and tilting, and European standardization in geotechnics.