3
Introduction
Print Reading for Construction is a textbook
for those who wish to learn basic print reading
and increase their knowledge of construction
drawings. The term print reading, as used in this
textbook, refers to interpreting and visualizing
construction drawings.
Print Reading for Construction is a combina-
tion text and workbook, or “write-in text.” The
text tells and shows how, and the workbook pro-
vides space for meaningful print reading, sketch-
ing, and estimating activities. Actual construction
prints used with the text can be found in the Large
Prints folder. They provide realistic job experi-
ence. The text is equally applicable for students
studying construction, estimating, or construc-
tion management.
Print Reading for Construction is intended for
technical students, apprentices, and adult work-
ers. It also is designed to be used for self-instruc-
tion by individuals unable to attend classes.
Using the Features of This
Textbook
A list of Technical Terms opens each unit.
Study this list before reading the unit. Pay special
attention when these terms are discussed. After
completing a unit, review the Technical Terms to
be sure you understand all of them. All of these
terms are also defi ned in the Glossary.
Learning Objectives are presented to defi ne the
most important skills you will learn in the unit.
After completing a unit, review these to ensure
that you have mastered the new material.
Each unit is followed by Test Your Knowledge
questions. These brief questions will help you to
evaluate how well you understand the topics pre-
sented in the unit.
Most units include two or more Activities that
provide you with practical print reading experi-
ence. Many of these will make use of the actual
residential and commercial prints contained in
the Large Prints folder.
The Glossary contains hundreds of words
with easy-to-understand defi nitions. When you
come across a term you are unfamiliar with, use
the Glossary to fi nd its meaning.
Using the Large Prints
The Large Prints folder contains six sets of con-
struction prints for the building projects referenced
in this text. There are 140 total prints in the folder
package. Included are sets for three residential build-
ing projects and three commercial building projects.
Print reading activities corresponding to each
project are presented in this text. Two of the proj-
ects are referenced in the print reading activities
in Units 8–17:
• The Marseille Two-Story Residence
• Delhi Flower and Garden Centers Greenhouse
and Sales Building
The print reading activities for these projects
appear at the end of each unit and are intended to
be completed after studying the corresponding unit.
There are four building projects referenced in
the Advanced Print Reading Projects section of this
text. These include two residential projects and
two commercial projects:
• Advanced Project A—Mercedes Pointe
Residence
• Advanced Project B—The North House Residence
• Advanced Project C—Offi ce and Warehouse
• Advanced Project D—Offi ce Building
The print reading activities for these projects
are more extensive in scope and are intended for
additional print reading practice.