The drying shrinkage or clays were studied to determine how quickly different types can be dried and to note whether or not the time of drying influences the amount of shrinkage. Three shales, two ball clays and one fire‐clay were tested and the following conclusions reached: (a), drying time depends largely on water content; (b), the structure of the clay is an important factor; (c), the amount of total shrinkage is proportional to the water content; (d), the amount of total shrinkage is not influenced by the rapidity of drying.