It can reveal all sorts of problems related to a lack of organic matter, compaction, poor drainage and the like. Now let's perform a real test to literally get a feel for the content and texture of your soil. It's called the squeeze test, for which you'll need a handful of soil from your lawn or garden. First, roll the soil in your hand such that it's about the size of a golf ball. Then gently squeeze the soil between your thumb and index finger.
Sand feels gritty, silt feels more like talcum powder and clay feels slippery.
Now squeeze the ball in your hand. If it crumbles, it has a well-balanced texture. If it holds its shape, it has a fair amount of clay. And if you can roll it into a snake, it's got more clay than you want. Drainage problems account for an incredible number of problems in the lawn and garden.