To improve the quality of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, nanosecond pulse laser generated by Nd∶YAG laser was used to excite soil sample. The laser-induced plasma spectrum was observed using a grating spectrometer and a photoelectric detection system. The influence of laser output energy ranging from 100 to 500 mJ on the radiation intensity of plasma was studied. The results show that both the line intensity and signal-to-background ratio can be enhanced under the optimized condition that the laser energy is 200 mJ .The quality of spectrum was further improved after the laser beam used to excite the sample was defocused properly. When the defocusing position is +6 mm, the spectral lines intensity of element Mg, Al, K and Fe increased about 46%, 63%, 59% and 45% compared to that without defocusing respectively. The spectral signal-to-background ratio increased about 11%, 31%, 35% and 38% respectively. This lays a foundation for detection of trace impurity element in soil.