Mixed Deck — All CDT Topics Flashcards

What is the primary purpose of a pre-construction conference?

Answer: To establish communication protocols, review submittals requirements, and align all parties before construction begins

The pre-construction conference aligns the owner, architect, and contractor on administrative procedures, communication channels, submittal schedules, and key project requirements before work begins.

What is a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) in a construction contract?

Answer: The price ceiling above which the contractor absorbs all additional costs

A GMP sets the maximum amount the owner will pay; if costs exceed the GMP, the contractor absorbs the overage.

What is the primary purpose of the "Project Manual" in construction documentation?

Answer: To include contract forms, conditions, and specifications

The Project Manual is a comprehensive binder that complements the construction drawings by providing all the written legal and technical requirements for a project. It typically contains contract forms, general and supplementary conditions, and the detailed specifications that describe materials, workmanship, and quality standards. This forms a complete set of instructions for the contractor, ensuring clarity and compliance.

What is a CDT’s role in ensuring code compliance?

Answer: Verifying that the construction documents meet local building codes and regulations

A CDT plays a crucial role in code compliance by ensuring that the written specifications and drawings adhere to all applicable local, state, and national building codes and regulations. They review documents for consistency and accuracy against these standards. This helps to prevent costly delays and rework during the construction phase, ensuring legal and safe construction.

What is the purpose of a drawing keynote system on construction documents?

Answer: To reference construction materials or assemblies on drawings to a numbered legend, reducing repetitive text on the drawing

A keynote system uses numbered references on drawings tied to a keynote legend, keeping drawing sheets uncluttered while providing consistent material and assembly call-outs.

In a Cost-Plus-Fee contract, what incentive mechanism can be added to motivate the contractor to control costs?

Answer: A shared savings provision where cost underruns are split between owner and contractor

A shared savings clause in a cost-plus contract splits any savings below the GMP between the owner and contractor, incentivizing the contractor to control costs.

In a design-bid-build project delivery, the sequence of events is:

Answer: Design → Bidding → Construction

Design-bid-build requires complete design documents before bidding, followed by contractor selection, and then construction.

Which advanced certification can a professional pursue after earning a CDT?

Answer: OSHA 30-Hour Certification

While not an advanced certification in construction documentation, the OSHA 30-Hour Certification is a valuable safety training program. It provides comprehensive knowledge of occupational safety and health standards relevant to the construction industry. This enhances a professional's overall understanding of project requirements and site safety, which indirectly supports document review for safety compliance and risk mitigation.

What is the purpose of an egress analysis in building design?

Answer: To verify that exit paths, widths, and distances comply with code requirements for safe building evacuation

An egress analysis verifies that the number, width, travel distance, and arrangement of exits meet code requirements to allow safe occupant evacuation in an emergency.

Which project delivery method is characterized by early involvement of the contractor during the design phase to assist with cost and constructability?

Answer: Construction Management at Risk (CMAR)

Construction Management at Risk (CMAR) is a project delivery method where the owner hires a Construction Manager (CM) early in the design phase. The CM provides pre-construction services, offering expertise on cost, schedule, and constructability. They then guarantee a maximum price for the construction, taking on the risk for project delivery and ensuring cost control.

Which standard governs the design and installation of fire sprinkler systems in the United States?

Answer: NFPA 13

NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, is the primary U.S. standard governing the design and installation of automatic fire sprinkler systems.

Which specification type lists acceptable manufacturers by name and requires no substitution?

Answer: Proprietary specification

A proprietary specification names a specific product or manufacturer, leaving no room for substitution unless explicitly allowed.

What triggers the commencement of the contractor's warranty period under AIA A201?

Answer: The date of issuance of the Certificate of Substantial Completion

Under AIA A201, the one-year correction period (warranty) begins on the date of Substantial Completion as certified by the architect.

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Standards for Accessible Design, what is the minimum clear width required for an accessible route?

Answer: 36 inches

The ADA Standards (section 403.5) require accessible routes to have a minimum clear width of 36 inches, though passing spaces of 60 inches are required at intervals where two wheelchairs cannot otherwise pass.

What software proficiency is commonly expected for a CDT when managing construction documents?

Answer: AutoCAD and Revit

AutoCAD and Revit are industry-standard software programs for computer-aided design (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM), respectively. Proficiency in these tools is commonly expected for a CDT as they are used to create, manage, and review the architectural and engineering drawings that form a significant part of construction documents. This allows CDTs to effectively interact with and understand design data.

Which skill is most important for a Construction Documents Technologist (CDT) when reviewing construction specifications?

Answer: Technical writing

When reviewing construction specifications, technical writing skills are paramount for a CDT. Specifications are highly detailed, precise written instructions that require clarity, accuracy, and adherence to standardized formats. A CDT must be able to understand, interpret, and sometimes refine this technical language to ensure it is unambiguous and enforceable, preventing misinterpretations on site.

What is a reflected ceiling plan (RCP) in construction documents?

Answer: A plan view of the ceiling as if a mirror on the floor reflected it upward, showing ceiling heights, lights, diffusers, and grid

A reflected ceiling plan shows the ceiling as seen from above with a mirror on the floor, documenting ceiling heights, grid layouts, light fixtures, HVAC diffusers, and other ceiling-mounted elements.

In project coordination, which skill helps a CDT ensure that all parties understand and follow the project’s specifications and contracts?

Answer: Document management

In project coordination, strong document management skills are essential for a CDT to ensure all parties understand and adhere to project specifications and contracts. This involves organizing, tracking, distributing, and controlling revisions of all project documents. It ensures everyone is working from the most current and accurate information, minimizing misinterpretations and ensuring compliance throughout the project.

Which document type is used by the architect to issue minor clarifications that do not change the contract sum or time?

Answer: Architect's Supplemental Instruction

An Architect's Supplemental Instruction (ASI) clarifies or interprets the contract documents without changing the contract sum or time.

Which document sets forth the minimum qualifications a contractor must meet to be eligible to bid on a project?

Answer: Qualification requirements in Instructions to Bidders

The Instructions to Bidders section typically includes qualification requirements that define the minimum experience, licensing, and financial standing a contractor must demonstrate.