Abstract: The primary thought and basic procedures of the current analogical design in geotechnical engineering are expounded, the significance of conceptual design is stressed, and the main problems in the analogical design are analyzed. With the purpose of solving these problems, the basic principles and patterns of analogical design in geotechnical engineering are systematically discussed, and the contents of basic principles of analogy, task characterization, analogical searches and mapping, transfer and revision of solutions, induction and generalization of schema are clarified according to the relevant theories of cognitive psychology. The explicit presentation for the essence and patterns of engineering analogical methods will be conducive to progressive improvement of design methods and continuous promotion of design levels in geotechnical engineering.