Trouble breaking up clay soil

Hi All,

First time post I have started a project in my back garden. I am creating a path & patio area with decorative stones. I have removed the turf, however, the soil is clay based and is in massive clumps which is really difficult to break up. Any ideas as to how I can break this up before laying my anti-weed membrane?
Thanks

Cameron

 

If you cannot get a fork through it then time to get out the pickaxe, or dynamite .....
If you wet the soil first it should be easier.

 

I am using a pick

 

If this is ground prep for a patio and a path, is it really necessary to break up the clay? Doing so will just loosen the surface, such that when it settles again, it will be all lumpy and uneven.

But if you have to break it up, I find that if you start it with a pick, then a good spade will work once you've made a starting hole.