The calculation methods of earth pressure and water pressure on retaining structure in the conditions of hydrostatic pressure
steady seepage
excess pore water pressure
have been analyzed and summarized. Some examples have been given to explain the difference between the methods of separately or integrally estimating water and earth pressures on retaining wall and the effects of seepage and excess pore water pressure on total pressure on retaining structure. Also the critical state analysis of stability of retaining structure has been emphasized