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This course covers the basics elements of residential construction plans, how they are organized, and how to index them to find specific information to include locating and identifying specific dimensions, basic construction terms and abbreviations, and other basic drawing components, lines, and symbols. Different plan views will be explained and the purpose of each.

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This course covers the basics elements of residential construction plans, how they are organized, and how to index them to find specific information to include locating and identifying specific dimensions, basic construction terms and abbreviations, and other basic drawing components, lines, and symbols. Different plan views will be explained and the purpose of each.

The course also includes a student exercise for the plan reading module that includes a full set of house plans and over 30 questions designed to teach you how to navigate the plan set. The Scaling module has 2 activities to help you practice reading an architect and engineer scale. You do not need to have a scale; we have provided you with an image based assignment to help you replicate the process. You can check all your answers by entering them in the quiz and get immediate feedback.

We also include several video lessons on basic construction math just in case you need a refresher. Review unit conversation, area and volume calculations.

If you are a beginner, you will not overwhelmed with this course content – we have kept it light for those just starting in construction plan reading.

Hope to see you in the course to learn this valuable skill with us.

Enroll now

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Helps beginners grasp building plan fundamentals
Provides step-by-step guidance through a house plan set
Reinforces construction math skills with additional video lessons
Interactive scaling activities supplement the theoretical component

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math with these activities:
Read through course notes and online resources
Review foundational knowledge on plan reading and architectural drawings to strengthen understanding of course materials.
Show steps
  • Gather course notes and online resources.
  • Review notes and resources for key concepts and terminology.
  • Identify areas where additional clarification is needed.
Watch video tutorials on plan scaling and calculations
Enhance understanding of plan scaling and construction calculations through guided video instruction.
Show steps
  • Search for video tutorials on plan scaling and calculations.
  • Watch tutorials and take notes on key concepts.
  • Practice using scaling and calculation techniques.
Practice identifying plan components and symbols
Reinforce understanding of plan components and symbols through repetitive practice exercises.
Show steps
  • Obtain a set of practice plans.
  • Identify and label different plan components and symbols.
  • Compare answers with answer key or instructor feedback.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a cheat sheet of plan reading abbreviations and terms
Solidify knowledge of plan reading abbreviations and terms by creating a personal reference.
Show steps
  • Compile a list of abbreviations and terms encountered in the course.
  • Define and explain each abbreviation and term.
  • Organize the cheat sheet for easy reference.
Form a study group with classmates to discuss plan reading concepts
Enhance understanding through group discussions and exchange of ideas with peers.
Browse courses on Collaborative Learning
Show steps
  • Connect with classmates and form a study group.
  • Schedule regular study sessions to discuss course topics and assignments.
  • Actively participate in discussions and share insights.
Develop a scaled floor plan of a small room
Apply knowledge of plan scaling and plan components by creating a scaled floor plan.
Show steps
  • Measure and sketch the dimensions of a small room.
  • Determine the appropriate scale for the floor plan.
  • Draw the floor plan to scale, including walls, doors, and windows.
Participate in a plan reading competition
Challenge yourself and test your plan reading skills in a competitive setting.
Show steps
  • Find a plan reading competition to participate in.
  • Practice and prepare for the competition.
  • Attend the competition and put your skills to the test.

Career center

Learners who complete Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Project Manager
A Project Manager plans, organizes, and manages construction projects. This course in Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math may be useful in this role, as it provides a foundation in understanding construction plans and specifications. It covers topics such as locating and identifying specific dimensions, basic construction terms and abbreviations, different plan views, and basic construction math. These skills can help a Project Manager effectively plan, organize, and manage construction projects.
Mechanical Engineer
A Mechanical Engineer designs and builds mechanical systems, such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. This course in Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math may be useful in this role, as it provides a foundation in understanding construction plans and specifications. It covers topics such as locating and identifying specific dimensions, basic construction terms and abbreviations, different plan views, and basic construction math. These skills can help a Mechanical Engineer effectively design and build mechanical systems.
Civil Engineer
A Civil Engineer designs and builds infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and water systems. This course in Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math may be useful in this role, as it provides a foundation in understanding construction plans and specifications. It covers topics such as locating and identifying specific dimensions, basic construction terms and abbreviations, different plan views, and basic construction math. These skills can help a Civil Engineer effectively design and build infrastructure projects.
Architect
An Architect designs and plans buildings and other structures. This course in Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math may be useful in this role, as it provides a foundation in understanding construction plans and specifications. It covers topics such as locating and identifying specific dimensions, basic construction terms and abbreviations, different plan views, and basic construction math. These skills can help an Architect effectively design and plan buildings and other structures.
Electrical Engineer
An Electrical Engineer designs and builds electrical systems, such as lighting, power, and communication systems. This course in Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math may be useful in this role, as it provides a foundation in understanding construction plans and specifications. It covers topics such as locating and identifying specific dimensions, basic construction terms and abbreviations, different plan views, and basic construction math. These skills can help an Electrical Engineer effectively design and build electrical systems.
Electrician
An Electrician installs and repairs electrical systems, such as lighting, power, and communication systems. This course in Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math may be useful in this role, as it provides a foundation in understanding construction plans and specifications. It covers topics such as locating and identifying specific dimensions, basic construction terms and abbreviations, different plan views, and basic construction math. These skills can help an Electrician effectively install and repair electrical systems.
Construction Manager
A Construction Manager plans, directs, and coordinates construction projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to the required specifications. This course in Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math may be useful in this role, as it provides a foundation in understanding construction plans and specifications. It covers topics such as locating and identifying specific dimensions, basic construction terms and abbreviations, different plan views, and basic construction math. These skills can help a Construction Manager effectively manage and oversee construction projects.
Structural Engineer
A Structural Engineer designs and analyzes the structural elements of buildings and other structures. This course in Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math may be useful in this role, as it provides a foundation in understanding construction plans and specifications. It covers topics such as locating and identifying specific dimensions, basic construction terms and abbreviations, different plan views, and basic construction math. These skills can help a Structural Engineer effectively design and analyze the structural elements of buildings and other structures.
Building Inspector
A Building Inspector inspects buildings and other structures to ensure they meet building codes and safety regulations. This course in Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math may be useful in this role, as it provides a foundation in understanding construction plans and specifications. It covers topics such as locating and identifying specific dimensions, basic construction terms and abbreviations, different plan views, and basic construction math. These skills can help a Building Inspector effectively inspect buildings and other structures.
Carpenter
A Carpenter constructs and repairs wooden structures, such as houses, bridges, and furniture. This course in Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math may be useful in this role, as it provides a foundation in understanding construction plans and specifications. It covers topics such as locating and identifying specific dimensions, basic construction terms and abbreviations, different plan views, and basic construction math. These skills can help a Carpenter effectively construct and repair wooden structures.
Plumber
A Plumber installs and repairs plumbing systems, such as water supply, drainage, and gas systems. This course in Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math may be useful in this role, as it provides a foundation in understanding construction plans and specifications. It covers topics such as locating and identifying specific dimensions, basic construction terms and abbreviations, different plan views, and basic construction math. These skills can help a Plumber effectively install and repair plumbing systems.
HVAC Technician
An HVAC Technician installs and repairs heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. This course in Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math may be useful in this role, as it provides a foundation in understanding construction plans and specifications. It covers topics such as locating and identifying specific dimensions, basic construction terms and abbreviations, different plan views, and basic construction math. These skills can help an HVAC Technician effectively install and repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Mason
A Mason constructs and repairs structures using materials such as brick, stone, and concrete. This course in Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math may be useful in this role, as it provides a foundation in understanding construction plans and specifications. It covers topics such as locating and identifying specific dimensions, basic construction terms and abbreviations, different plan views, and basic construction math. These skills can help a Mason effectively construct and repair structures using materials such as brick, stone, and concrete.
Roofer
A Roofer installs and repairs roofs. This course in Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math may be useful in this role, as it provides a foundation in understanding construction plans and specifications. It covers topics such as locating and identifying specific dimensions, basic construction terms and abbreviations, different plan views, and basic construction math. These skills can help a Roofer effectively install and repair roofs.
Construction Estimator
A Construction Estimator calculates the cost of construction projects. This course in Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math may be useful in this role, as it provides a foundation in understanding construction plans and specifications. It covers topics such as locating and identifying specific dimensions, basic construction terms and abbreviations, different plan views, and basic construction math. These skills can help a Construction Estimator accurately calculate the cost of construction projects.

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Residential Plan Reading, Scaling & Construction Math.
Provides a comprehensive collection of construction details for residential and commercial buildings, covering topics such as foundations, walls, roofs, and finishes. It offers a valuable reference guide for architects, builders, and designers.
Valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about residential design using AutoCAD 2013. It covers topics such as drafting, design, and construction. It is written in a clear and concise style, and it includes helpful examples and exercises.
Valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about basic blueprint reading. It covers topics such as plan reading, scaling, and construction math. It is written in a clear and concise style, and it includes helpful examples and exercises.
Offers an in-depth look at the electrical systems in residential buildings, providing valuable information that complements the course's focus on plan reading and construction math. It serves as a comprehensive reference guide for understanding electrical wiring principles and practices.
Provides a visual guide to the 2021 International Building Code, explaining the code's requirements and principles through clear illustrations. It offers a valuable resource for understanding and applying the code in residential construction.
Provides a comprehensive overview of building construction, covering topics such as materials, systems, and construction methods. It offers a valuable visual guide to the various aspects of building construction.
Serves as a reference guide to building codes, providing a comprehensive understanding of the codes and standards that govern residential construction. It helps students understand the legal and safety requirements associated with construction projects.
Introduces the principles and practices of green building in residential construction, covering topics such as sustainable materials, energy efficiency, and water conservation. It offers valuable insights into the latest trends and best practices in green building.
Valuable resource for homeowners who want to learn more about reading and understanding blueprints. It provides a clear and concise explanation of the basics of blueprint reading, and it includes helpful illustrations and examples.

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