Architectural (A) Plan Set — Comprehensive Essay Test

Answer each question carefully. When finished, click “Submit Test.” Your completed form will be emailed directly to education@sfjohnsonconsulting.com.

Student Name: 1. Describe the purpose of the A-Series in a full construction plan set and what type of information it communicates to the field. 2. Explain how the architectural floor plan coordinates with the reflected ceiling plan (RCP) and what inconsistencies might cause errors in construction. 3. Discuss how door and window schedules support the architectural plans and what details are essential for the estimator to capture accurately. 4. What is the significance of wall types and legends in the A-plans, and how do they impact labor and material takeoffs? 5. Describe the function of finish schedules and how they are linked to room tags or symbols within the plan sheets. 6. How does the architectural plan coordinate with the structural (S) set to ensure accurate load transfer and framing layout? 7. Identify three key symbols or notations common in A-plans and explain their meaning and importance in interpreting the drawings. 8. Explain how elevations and sections help clarify details that may not be visible on the plan view. 9. Discuss how an estimator or project manager can use the A-set to verify design intent during preconstruction or site coordination meetings. 10. Describe the steps you would take to cross-check the architectural sheet index with other disciplines to ensure a complete and accurate takeoff. Responses will be sent to education@sfjohnsonconsulting.com for grading.

Instructor Answer Key — Unlock After Review

1. Defines design intent—dimensions, layout, finishes, and architectural scope for construction and estimating.

2. RCP alignment with floor plan ensures ceiling layouts match field dimensions; mismatches cause fixture conflicts.

3. Door/window schedules list opening types, sizes, and hardware—vital for accurate estimates and procurement.

4. Wall legends specify materials, ratings, and assemblies—affecting labor units and costs.

5. Finish schedules ensure each room’s finishes are identified and priced correctly.

6. Coordination between A and S plans guarantees structural and architectural alignment.

7. Common symbols: north arrow, section cut, elevation tag—critical for interpreting plan relationships.

8. Elevations/sections show vertical dimensions and hidden details not seen in plan view.

9. The A-set validates design intent and finish coordination in preconstruction meetings.

10. Cross-check sheet indexes across trades to confirm completeness before estimating.

A Plan Test

Architectural (A) Plan Set — Comprehensive Essay Test

Instructor Answer Key — Unlock After Review

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