Recent efforts in numerical modeling of the tailings consolidation processes for oil-sands tailings have raised fundamental questions related to the processes of large-strain consolidation and sedimentation. At which point does consolidation dominate? What about the sedimentation process? What about creep? The numerical modeling of the consolidation of oil-sand tailings becomes challenging if the fundamental process has not yet been established. This paper examines each of these three theories and how they relate to existing benchmarks. The performance of individual processes of large-strain consolidation, sedimentation, and the creep processes are studied. The benchmarking of single and multi-stage consolidation models is examined in light of their application the layered deposition currently proposed in industry. The performance of each theory in light of Standpipes 1 & 3 from the University of Alberta is examined in light of how each theory matches reality. The performance of each theory related to oil-sand and nonoil-sand materials is examined and reviewed. From this paper it is desired that further clarity relating to the reasonable application of each theory can be obtained for future studies and applications of the numerical methodology.