Estimating Practice Exam

True or False: An estimate begins with a quantity takeoff.

1. True

2. False

3. Depends on the project

4. Only if required by the designer

The correct answer is: True

An estimate begins with a quantity takeoff because this process involves listing and quantifying all the materials and labor required for a project based on the blueprints and specifications. The quantity takeoff serves as the foundation of the estimating process, providing the necessary data to calculate costs accurately. This initial step allows estimators to formulate a detailed and reliable estimate, ensuring that they account for every aspect of the project. Without this quantification, it would be challenging to make informed cost projections, thereby emphasizing the importance of the quantity takeoff as the starting point in the estimating procedure.