A compression test is done to determine the compressive strength of a material, in addition to other material properties related to its ability to withstand compressive forces. With the help of this test, you can determine how a material responds to compressive forces, as well as the properties that explains its behavior in the presence of such forces. With the help of the data obtained from such tests, one can determine if a specific material is optimal to be used for applications where compressive forces are applied.