Using the Texture Triangle
Another method is to gradually wet the soil and while rubbing it between the fingers estimate the percentage of sand, silt and clay based on how gritty or sticky the sample feels.
A texture triangle is then used to read off what the textural class is. In practise only two of the three sizes need to be estimated, the third is derived by difference. E.g. if sand is 50 % and clay is 30 % then silt must be 20 %.
Soil Texture Groups:
Some times a more general description of texture is all that is needed. In this case the soil texture group can be used.
There are four texture groups, these are silty, loamy, sandy and clayey.
click on either of the pictures to the left to learn more on Using a Texture Triangle
have a go putting the classes in correct place on the triangle.