There two tests to determine the type of soil you have: jar test and hand test. Knowing your type of soil helps you to:
Jar Test:
Use Jar Test Results - Match Up With The 3 Sides Of The “Soil Pyramid:”
Or Do A Hand Test
Check out a simple hand test method in this blog post by G3/The Green Gardens Group.
Soil Compaction Test
Learn how to do an easy test on Landscape Resource's website.