CFB Blueprint Reading & Interpretation 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: On a structural drawing, what does a dashed hidden line typically represent?
- A surface edge that is visible to the viewer
- An edge or feature hidden behind another surface (Correct answer)
- The centerline of a structural member
- A dimension reference line
Correct answer: An edge or feature hidden behind another surface
Hidden lines (dashed) represent edges or features that exist but are not visible from the current view direction.
Question 2: A plan view drawing of a building is typically a view from which direction?
- Looking from the side at eye level
- Looking straight up from the floor
- Looking straight down from above (Correct answer)
- Looking diagonally from a corner
Correct answer: Looking straight down from above
A plan view is a bird's-eye (top-down) view, showing the layout of a floor or site as seen from above.
Question 3: What does the abbreviation 'TYP' mean when noted on a blueprint?
- Total Yield Point
- Temporary
- Typical — applies to all similar conditions (Correct answer)
- Type approval required
Correct answer: Typical — applies to all similar conditions
'TYP' (Typical) indicates that the dimension or detail shown applies to all identical or similar conditions on the drawing.
Question 4: On a site plan, contour lines that are spaced close together indicate:
- Flat terrain
- Steep slope (Correct answer)
- Underground utilities
- Property boundaries
Correct answer: Steep slope
Closely spaced contour lines indicate a rapid change in elevation, meaning a steep slope in that area.
Question 5: Which drawing type shows the internal arrangement of a structure by cutting through it vertically?
- Elevation view
- Plan view
- Section view (Correct answer)
- Detail view
Correct answer: Section view
A section view shows the interior of a structure by depicting a vertical cut through the building, revealing internal construction.
Question 6: What does the symbol 'Ø' preceding a number on a drawing indicate?
- Angle measurement in degrees
- Diameter of a circular feature (Correct answer)
- Depth of excavation
- Distance from origin
Correct answer: Diameter of a circular feature
The symbol Ø (phi) is universally used on technical drawings to denote the diameter of a circular element such as a pipe or bolt.
Question 7: A north arrow on a site plan is used to:
- Show the direction of prevailing winds
- Orient the drawing relative to true or magnetic north (Correct answer)
- Indicate the direction water flows on the site
- Mark the location of the main entrance
Correct answer: Orient the drawing relative to true or magnetic north
The north arrow orients the site plan so the reader knows the compass direction of features shown on the drawing.
CFB Blueprint Reading & Interpretation 2
On a structural drawing, what does a dashed hidden line typically represent?