Definition of Workability:

The simplest definition of workability is "the ease by which one can handle the concrete". For handling of concrete involves all the operations performed on the fresh concrete namely, transporting, compacting, mixing, placing, finishing and etc.

If all these operations can be performed smoothly and efficiently with minimum efforts then the concrete is said to be most workable.

As per IS 461(VII) : 1973, the workability can be defined as "that property of freshly mixed concrete or mortar which determines the ease and homogeneity with which it could be placed, mixed, compacted and finished."

Scientifically or technically, the workability of concrete can also be defined as "that property of concrete that determines the amount of meaningful internal work essential to produce full compaction, i.e. along with least voids". The workability of concrete through compaction factor test is determined on the basis of this definition of workability.