Planning & EstimatingQuestion 505 of 700
When performing a quantity takeoff from a set of plans, which practice BEST reduces costly estimating errors?
a.Rounding every dimension down to the nearest foot to save material
b.Estimating only from memory of similar past jobs
c.Counting only the most expensive materials and guessing the rest
d.Systematically measuring each assembly, cross-checking scale against noted dimensions, and applying consistent waste factors
Explanation
Accurate takeoffs come from a systematic, checked process: measure each assembly, verify the drawing scale against the dimensions actually written on the plans, and apply consistent waste and coverage factors. Option d captures this. Rounding down (a) causes shortages, memory-only estimates (b) miss job-specific conditions, and guessing (c) produces unreliable bids.
Practice all 700 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- A bedroom plan shows a single egress window with a clear opening of 5.0 square feet and a sill 46 inches above the finished floor. Based on typical emergency escape requirements, what should the plan checker flag?
- During a field inspection you notice the delivered floor joists are one size smaller than the joists specified on the approved structural plans. What is the BEST first step?
- A parking lot is 200 ft by 300 ft and will receive 3 inches of asphalt. Approximately how many cubic yards of compacted asphalt are needed?
- A project must meet CALGreen construction waste requirements. What is the general contractor's BEST approach to demonstrate compliance during the job?
- A supplier quotes framing lumber at $650 per thousand board feet (MBF). A job requires 8,000 board feet. What is the estimated material cost before tax?
- A general contractor coordinates multiple subcontractors on a commercial project. Which practice BEST prevents schedule conflicts and duplicated work between trades?
Last reviewed: · editorial process
PrepPass Editorial Team · Verified against California CSLB General Building (B) Trade Examination · How we review