Abstract: Single Point Shear and MultiPoints Shear methods are common insitu direct shear tests for the rock mass shear strength measurement. While strength data from the multipoints shear test methods are usually more scatter than those from single point shear testing, the single point testing method has its own limitations. From the practical project point of view, this paper presents different methods of conducting single point insitu direct shear test and their characteristics. Factors affecting test results, testing conditions and testing methods are discussed and evaluated. The single point direct test data demonstrate the following conclusions: Although testing errors might exist in the shear strength results from the single point testing method, these errors still could be controlled within the acceptable range for the engineering applications if appropriate precautious measures can be applied in the testing process. Key procedures, controlling testing measures and data process aspects are also discussed in the paper.

Key words: single point method, shear strength, testing error, influence factors