Design and Planning Communication
This domain tests whether your graphics communicate the right information at the right scale-to clients, reviewers, and contractors.
Drawing types and scales
- Plans show plan-view information; sections cut vertically; elevations show exteriors; axonometrics show 3D without perspective distortion.
- Larger scale means more detail: 1"=10' is larger than 1"=100'.
- Use a graphic scale bar, not only a numeric ratio, because reproductions resize.
Construction communication
- Every sheet needs a title block, north arrow, legend, dimensions, and keynotes.
- Line weights establish hierarchy: cut lines heaviest, then visible edges, then context.
- Construction documents must be coordinated across plans, sections, details, and schedules.
Worked example
A 240-ft walk is drawn at 1"=40'. Length on paper = 240 ÷ 40 = 6 in. At 1"=20' it would be 12 in., which may not fit an 8.5 × 11 sheet with margins. At 1"=60' it is 4 in. Choose the scale that fits the sheet while keeping the walk legible, and add a graphic scale.
Traps
- Relying on a numeric scale after CAD/PDF resizing.
- Omitting the north arrow or legend.
- Using perspective for dimensioned information.
- Inconsistent line weights that flatten hierarchy.
- Mixing engineering and architectural scales without labels.