Lines & Symbols
This line type is used to represent objects visible in a plan view.
What is a visible line (or object line)?
This is the main drawing that shows the layout of the building from above.
What is a floor plan?
This tool is used to interpret scale on blueprints.
What is a scale ruler?
"CL" often stands for this vertical alignment line.
What is centerline?
The title block contains this identifying information.
What is the drawing name, scale, date, and project info?
This dashed line shows features that are not visible in the current view.
What is a hidden line?
These drawings show the front and side views of a structure.
What are elevations?
A common scale for residential floor plans is this.
What is 1/4" = 1'-0"?
"TYP" means this when referring to repeated features.
What is typical?
The sheet number "A1.2" would typically refer to this type of drawing.
What is an architectural drawing?
These lines indicate the center of arcs, circles, or symmetrical parts.
What is a center line?
These drawings show a cut-through of a building to reveal internal structure.
What is a section view?
This term describes the actual measurement compared to the scaled size.
What is true (or real) size?
"AFF" refers to this height reference.
What is Above Finished Floor?
This page in the drawing set shows all the symbols used.
What is the legend or symbol key?
This symbol indicates a section cut on a floor plan.
What is a section line or cutting plane line?
This type of drawing focuses on detailed views of specific elements.
What is a detail drawing?
This word describes the ratio of the drawing size to the real-world size.
What is scale?
"WD" is short for this common construction material.
What is wood?
These reference numbers match notes on drawings to a list of materials.
What are keynotes or callouts?
This line type is used for dimensions and notes, typically thin and straight.
What is a dimension line or extension line?
These plans show the layout for HVAC, plumbing, or electrical systems.
What are MEP drawings (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing)?
If a room is 12' wide in real life, how wide is it on a 1/8" scale drawing?
What is 1.5 inches?
"NTS" means a drawing is not to this.
What is Not To Scale?
Before building, contractors must review blueprints for this type of conflict.
What is a Obstructions or interference?