Concrete, Masonry, and Structural Steel
Concrete basics
Know mix design components (cement, water, aggregate, admixtures), water-cement ratio, slump, air entrainment for freeze-thaw, and curing methods. Understand formwork pressure, rebar placement tolerances, cover requirements, and the difference between nominal and specified strength. Traps: confusing 28-day strength with 7-day, and forgetting that hot weather increases water demand and reduces strength.
Placement and testing
Study consolidation, cold joints, finishing operations, and test methods: slump (ASTM C143), air content, and compressive cylinders. Know that cylinders cure under field conditions and are tested at 28 days, with 7-day breaks as early indicators.
Masonry
Understand CMU versus brick, mortar types (M, S, N, O), grouting, reinforcement, flashing, and weep holes. Mortar type S is the common structural choice; type N is for general above-grade. Traps: omitting weep holes above flashing, and confusing mortar with grout.
Structural steel
Know AISC basics: W-shape designation (nominal depth and weight per foot), bolted versus welded connections, high-strength bolts with tension control, and shop versus field connections. Understand erection tolerances, camber, and fireproofing requirements.
Worked example
A W14x48 beam has a nominal depth of 14 in and weighs 48 lb per linear foot. A 30 ft beam weighs 1,440 lb. If a question asks for total steel tonnage, multiply by piece count and divide by 2,000.
Rule of thumb
Water-cement ratio drives strength and durability; lower ratio means higher strength but harder placement.