Question 1

According to IS (Indian Standard) method of measurement, what is the conventional order for booking dimensions?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: A uniform dimension-order convention avoids confusion during take-off and billing. Indian Standard measurement practice prescribes a consistent sequence across items so that multiplication and checking are straightforward. Given Data / Assumptions: The question refers to the IS method of measurement (e.g., IS 1200 series). We seek the conventional dimension order. Concept / Approach: Dimensions are typically recorded as Length first (along the primary run), Breadth (thickness or secondary span) second, and Height (or depth/vertical) last—commonly abbreviated LBH. This standardization helps maintain clarity in quantity abstracts and reconciliations. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the dominant horizontal dimension as Length.Record the secondary horizontal dimension as Breadth.Record the vertical dimension as Height.Thus, the order is Length, Breadth, Height. Verification / Alternative check: Cross-check with standard schedules and textbooks—LBH is the commonly cited sequence. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Other permutations depart from the convention and invite mistakes in multiplication. Common Pitfalls: Switching dimension order between items; misinterpreting breadth vs. thickness. Final Answer: Length, breadth, height

Question 2

In a base (house) drainage system, inspection pits or chambers (small manholes) should be provided at which locations?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Inspection pits or chambers provide access for cleaning, testing, and maintenance of house drains. Correct positioning minimizes blockages, reduces maintenance effort, and supports sanitary performance of the building drainage system. Given Data / Assumptions: Pipes carry soil and waste to the intercepting chamber and public sewer. Chambers should allow rodding and inspection at critical points. Spacing and placement follow accepted public health engineering practice. Concept / Approach: Chambers should be installed at geometric and hydraulic discontinuities: junctions, bends (changes in direction), and gradient changes. On long straight runs, provide chambers at reasonable intervals (often about 30 m) to ensure rodding access. At the junction of a vertical soil pipe and the house drain, an inspection point is essential to control and clear blockages. Step-by-Step Solution: Check A: Changes in direction demand access — true.Check B: Changes in gradient can cause sedimentation or turbulence — access needed.Check C: Long straights require periodic access — around 30 m is a common benchmark.Check D: Vertical-to-horizontal junctions need an inspection point.Therefore, E (All the above) is correct. Verification / Alternative check: Public health manuals and codes illustrate chamber placement at each change and at set intervals along runs. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Any subset omits legitimate, recommended chamber locations. Common Pitfalls: Omitting chambers at gradient changes; excessive spacing that prevents effective rodding; placing chambers in inaccessible locations. Final Answer: All the above.

Question 3

Among common estimating methods (preliminary, plinth-area, cube-rate, detailed), which provides the most reliable and accurate cost estimate for a project?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Estimating accuracy improves as the level of project definition increases. Early-stage estimates rely on proxies (area, volume), while a detailed estimate is built from measured quantities and current rates, yielding the highest reliability for budgeting and tendering. Given Data / Assumptions: Project drawings, specifications, and schedules are available to different degrees. We compare four methods: preliminary, plinth-area, cube-rate, and detailed. We seek the most reliable among them. Concept / Approach: Preliminary and plinth-area estimates are suitable for feasibility and rough budgeting. Cube-rate estimates incorporate storey height (volume) but still generalize. A detailed estimate itemizes quantities (BOQ), applies unit rates, includes allowances for wastage, overheads, and contingencies, and is thus the most accurate and reliable. Step-by-Step Solution: Recognize data depth: Detailed > Cube-rate > Plinth-area > Preliminary.Reliability follows data granularity and specificity.Therefore, Detailed estimate is the most reliable. Verification / Alternative check: Award-of-contract processes require detailed estimates and BOQs; early-stage screening does not. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Preliminary/Plinth/Cube-rate: Useful but less precise due to assumptions and averages. None of these: Incorrect because “Detailed estimate” is a valid and correct option. Common Pitfalls: Relying on early-stage estimates for final budgeting; ignoring market rate updates and location factors in a detailed estimate. Final Answer: Detailed estimate

Question 4

Which of the following items is NOT typically measured in square metres (sq.m) under standard methods of measurement?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Selecting the correct unit for measurement is fundamental in estimation and billing. Many thin or superficial items are measured by area, whereas structural concrete is generally measured by volume with separate items for formwork and reinforcement. Given Data / Assumptions: D.P.C. is a thin layer at plinth or floors. Formwork is measured by its contact surface area. Concrete jaffries (jaalis) are perforated screens defined by plan area and thickness. R.C. chhajja is a reinforced concrete projection (slab) from the wall. Concept / Approach: Under common practice, structural R.C.C. is measured in cubic metres (cu.m), while its associated formwork is measured in sq.m and steel by weight. D.P.C. and jaffries are typically measured in sq.m due to their thin, superficial nature. Hence, among the options, R.C. chhajja is the item not generally measured in sq.m (the R.C.C. work itself is measured in cu.m, though finishes on it may be in sq.m). Step-by-Step Solution: D.P.C.: thin layer → sq.m — correct.Formwork: surface area → sq.m — correct.Concrete jaffries: screen area → sq.m — correct.R.C. chhajja (R.C.C. work): measured in cu.m; therefore NOT in sq.m. Verification / Alternative check: Standard measurement texts list R.C.C. works by volume with separate entries for shuttering and reinforcement. Why Other Options Are Wrong: A, B, C are indeed measured in sq.m in conventional schedules. E is wrong because D is not measured in sq.m for the R.C.C. quantity itself. Common Pitfalls: Confusing the unit for the R.C.C. structural quantity with associated items (formwork/finishes) that are area-based. Final Answer: R.C. chhajja (projecting reinforced concrete slab)

Question 5

According to standard productivity norms, what is the expected out-turn for 12 mm thick cement plastering per mason per day (under normal site conditions)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Out-turn norms guide planning of manpower and project durations. For plastering, productivity depends on surface preparation, mixing, application, finishing, and curing. Standard references provide indicative daily areas per mason for commonly used thicknesses like 12 mm. Given Data / Assumptions: Plaster thickness = 12 mm cement mortar. One mason with usual helper support. Normal, unobstructed site conditions without unusual detailing. Concept / Approach: For 12 mm plaster, a widely accepted benchmark is about 8.0 sq.m per mason per day. Thicker coats, awkward geometry, or multiple coats reduce output; mechanized mixing or ideal conditions may increase it slightly, but 8.0 sq.m is a robust planning value and common exam standard. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify task: uniform 12 mm plaster over prepared masonry.Consult typical SOR/handbook norms for daily output.Select the closest benchmark value: 8.0 sq.m per mason per day. Verification / Alternative check: Cross-referencing multiple handbooks shows 6–10 sq.m as a typical range; 8.0 sq.m is the central figure used for planning and examinations. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 2.5, 4.0, 6.0 sq.m: Understate typical productivity for 12 mm plaster. 10 sq.m: Optimistic for consistent finish quality under normal conditions. Common Pitfalls: Ignoring time for corner beads, scaffolding moves, or curing; extrapolating from thinner coats or machine-sprayed systems. Final Answer: 8.0 sq.m

Question 6

For a protective embankment with mean height d, side slopes S:1 (horizontal:vertical), and length L, what is the area of one sloping face?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: When estimating protection works, pitching, or turfing on embankment slopes, we need the true sloping-face area, not just the vertical projection. Given the mean height, side slope, and length along the embankment, the surface area is found using basic geometry. Given Data / Assumptions: Mean height of embankment face = d. Side slope ratio = S:1 (horizontal:vertical). Length along the embankment = L. We seek the area of a single sloping face. Concept / Approach: The sloping length corresponding to vertical height d on a slope S:1 is the hypotenuse of a right triangle with vertical leg d and horizontal leg S*d. Hence, sloping length = d * sqrt(1 + S^2). The surface area of one face equals this sloping length multiplied by the embankment length L. Step-by-Step Solution: Compute slope length: l_slope = d * sqrt(1 + S^2).Compute area of one face: A = L * l_slope = L * d * sqrt(1 + S^2).Select the option matching this expression. Verification / Alternative check: Dimensional check: L (length) * d (length) gives area (length^2); the sqrt term is dimensionless. Why Other Options Are Wrong: A and B are dimensionally or conceptually incorrect. D doubles the correct single-face area (might apply if both faces are considered). E is dimensionally inconsistent for area. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting to use the true sloping length (using d alone); accidentally doubling for two faces when only one is asked. Final Answer: L * d * sqrt(1 + S^2)

Question 7

In a plinth area estimate for buildings, which of the following items is NOT included within the plinth area measurement?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Plinth area is the built-up covered area measured at floor level to the outside of walls. It forms the basis for preliminary cost estimates and benchmarking. Understanding inclusions and exclusions ensures consistent comparisons and budgeting. Given Data / Assumptions: The estimate concerns roofed, covered spaces within the building's plinth outline. Wall thickness and internal rooms are part of the plinth area. Open-to-sky spaces are generally excluded. Concept / Approach: Plinth area includes thickness of walls, rooms, verandahs (if roofed and within the plinth line), toilets, stair/lift shafts (as applicable), etc. Open courtyards (uncovered) are excluded, even if bounded by walls, because they are not roofed covered areas at the floor level. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify covered vs. uncovered spaces at floor level.Include: wall thickness, rooms, verandah, W.C. as they are covered within the plinth outline.Exclude: open-to-sky courtyard area.Therefore, Courtyard area is not included in plinth area. Verification / Alternative check: Guides on plinth-area estimation explicitly exclude open courts and light-wells; they may be considered in site coverage, not plinth area. Why Other Options Are Wrong: A–D are all part of the covered built-up area and hence included in plinth area. Common Pitfalls: Including open-to-sky courts; confusion between carpet area, built-up area, and plinth area definitions. Final Answer: Courtyard area (open-to-sky internal court)

Question 8

A steel reinforcing rod of diameter D is subjected to a tensile (bar) stress of 1400 kg/cm^2, and the permissible bond stress in concrete is 6 kg/cm^2. In reinforced concrete anchorage design, determine the required development (bond) length express…

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Development (bond) length is the embedment needed so that bond stress between concrete and steel can safely transfer the bar's tensile force into the surrounding concrete. This question checks the classic anchorage derivation that equates the tensile force in the bar to the circumferential bond resistance along a straight length. Given Data / Assumptions: Tensile (steel) stress, sigma_s = 1400 kg/cm^2. Permissible bond stress, tau_bd = 6 kg/cm^2. Bar diameter = D (cm). Straight bar, uniform bond, full development from zero to full stress. Concept / Approach: The tensile force in the bar must be equilibrated by bond around its perimeter over the development length L_d. For a round bar, bar force T = sigma_s * A_bar and bond capacity = tau_bd * perimeter * L_d. Set these equal and solve for L_d in terms of D. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Bar area: A_bar = (pi * D^2) / 4.2) Bar tension: T = sigma_s * A_bar = sigma_s * (pi * D^2 / 4).3) Bond resistance: R = tau_bd * (perimeter) * L_d = tau_bd * (pi * D) * L_d.4) Equate T = R ⇒ sigma_s * (pi * D^2 / 4) = tau_bd * (pi * D) * L_d.5) Cancel pi and one D: L_d = (sigma_s * D) / (4 * tau_bd) = 1400 D / (4 * 6) = 1400 D / 24 = 58.33 D ≈ 59 D. Verification / Alternative check: Dimensional consistency holds (length ∝ D). The numeric factor 58.33 matches code-based approximate tables for plain, straight bars under the stated stresses. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 30 D, 40 D, 50 D, 53 D: All are less than the computed 58.33 D and would not fully develop the bar under the given stress. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting the 1/4 factor from area = pi D^2/4. Mixing up bond stress units or using bar stress instead of allowable stress. Final Answer: 59 D.

Question 9

Select the correct prismoidal (Simpson’s) formula for volume between a series of equally spaced cross-sections: identify the proper weighting of odd and even intermediate areas relative to the first and last areas.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In earthwork/highway/river training projects, volume between a sequence of equally spaced cross-sections is frequently computed using the prismoidal (Simpson’s) formula. Mastering the correct weighting of odd and even intermediate areas avoids systematic over- or underestimation compared to the trapezoidal rule. Given Data / Assumptions: Sections are at equal spacing D. Areas: A0 (first), An (last), with intermediate A1, A2, ..., An−1. We seek the correct coefficient pattern for odd and even indices. Concept / Approach: Simpson’s (prismoidal) rule for equally spaced sections is V = (D/3) * [A0 + An + 4 * (sum of odd-index areas) + 2 * (sum of even-index areas)]. The hallmark of Simpson’s rule is the 4–2 alternating weights starting with 4 on A1 (odd) and ending with 4 on A_{n−1} (also odd when n is even). Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Write the canonical form: V = (D / 3) * [A0 + An + 4 Σ A_odd + 2 Σ A_even].2) Identify that odd-index areas (A1, A3, ...) receive weight 4.3) Even-index areas (A2, A4, ...) receive weight 2.4) Among the options, only the expression with '2 ∑ Even' and '4 ∑ odd' has the correct relative weighting pattern. Verification / Alternative check: Comparing against the trapezoidal rule V = (D/2) [A0 + An + 2 Σ A_i] confirms Simpson’s extra curvature correction via alternating 4–2 weights, which reduces error for parabolic area variation. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A mis-weights even/odd and lacks the /3 factor notionally implied. Option B gives 4 to even areas, which is reversed. Option D is the same pattern but punctuation aside; the core correct pattern is '2 even, 4 odd' (captured by Option C). Common Pitfalls: Swapping the 4 and 2 multipliers. Applying Simpson’s rule to an odd number of intervals without adjustment. Final Answer: [first area + last area + 2 ∑ Even area + 4 ∑ odd areas].

Question 10

Identify which types of brickwork are measured in square metres (area measurement) rather than cubic metres in standard quantity surveying practice.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Measurement units in bills of quantities depend on whether the item is volumetric (thick walls) or areal (thin layers/partitions). Correctly classifying brickwork avoids confusion and ensures appropriate rates are applied. Given Data / Assumptions: Honeycomb brickwork forms perforated screens—essentially an area treatment. Brick flat soling is a single-layer brick bedding under floors/roads—an areal layer. Half-brick (≈10 cm) partitions are thin walls—area-based. Concept / Approach: Full-thickness walls (e.g., 20–23 cm and above) are measured in cubic metres because thickness is significant. Thin/one-brick-layer works (soling, honeycomb screens, and half-brick partitions) are measured in square metres, with thickness specified in the item description. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Recognize that each listed item is effectively a single course or perforated layer.2) Therefore, unit = square metre, with thickness/spacing stated.3) Summarize: All three items are measured on area basis. Verification / Alternative check: Method-of-measurement standards and schedules of rates consistently list these under Sq m items. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Choosing only A, B, or C omits other valid area-measured brickwork types. Common Pitfalls: Measuring half-brick partitions in cubic metres, leading to mispriced work. Ignoring void allowances in honeycomb screens per specs. Final Answer: All the above..

Question 11

In reinforced concrete beams, the total length of a cranked (bent-up) bar that rises through a vertical distance d at a 45° angle, for a beam of effective length L, is taken as which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Bent-up (cranked) bars are used to control shear near supports and to anchor tension steel efficiently. Estimators need a practical rule to add the extra length contributed by two 45° bends that raise and then return the bar over an effective depth d. Given Data / Assumptions: Effective horizontal length of the bar = L. Crank rises through vertical d at 45° (and returns similarly). Standard detailing approximations are acceptable for bar length calculations. Concept / Approach: The true inclined length to traverse depth d at 45° is d / sin 45° = d * √2 ≈ 1.414 d. However, as the horizontal projection already counts d (since tan 45° = 1), practical estimation uses an empirical addition of approximately 0.42 d per crank to account for the extra length beyond the horizontal projection, bend curvatures, and allowances. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Two cranks (up and down) occur: total extra allowance ≈ 2 * 0.42 d = 0.84 d.2) Bar length = horizontal L + crank allowances = L + 0.84 d.3) Hence, adopt L + 2 × 0.42 d per standard estimation practice. Verification / Alternative check: Comparing with exact geometric surplus (2 * (√2 − 1) d ≈ 0.828 d) shows the 0.84 d allowance is a close, conservative approximation including bend curvature. Why Other Options Are Wrong: L + 0.42 d: Only accounts for one crank, not two. Negative adjustments (options C and D) contradict the added length due to bending. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting to include both up and down crank allowances. Omitting extra length for hooks/anchorage where specified separately. Final Answer: L + 2 x 0.42 d.

Question 12

For a highway formation having a uniform gradient over a length where the existing ground also has a longitudinal slope, which earthwork computation methods are acceptable for calculating quantities?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Highway earthwork is often computed between successive cross-sections where both formation level and ground profile vary. The selection of a volume formula balances accuracy with the available sectional data. Given Data / Assumptions: Uniform formation gradient over the considered length. Ground exhibits a longitudinal slope (not necessarily uniform across the entire project). Cross-sections are available at regular intervals. Concept / Approach: The mid-section and trapezoidal formulae are straightforward and widely used; the prismoidal (Simpson’s) formula offers higher accuracy when area variation is approximately parabolic. For routine highway works with reasonably spaced sections, all three methods are acceptable, with the prismoidal formula preferred where curvature in area change is significant. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Compute areas at section faces from formation-ground geometry.2) Choose a formula: Mid-section (average of areas at midpoints), Trapezoidal (average of end areas), or Prismoidal (Simpson’s 4–2 weighting with D/3 factor).3) Apply consistently over intervals and sum volumes. Verification / Alternative check: Spot-check a segment with both trapezoidal and prismoidal; differences are typically small if intervals are short or areas vary nearly linearly. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Each of A–C is valid; selecting only one unnecessarily restricts acceptable practice. Common Pitfalls: Using large intervals where area curvature demands prismoidal accuracy. Failing to maintain equal spacing when applying Simpson’s rule. Final Answer: All the above..

Question 13

As per common Indian Standard practice for domestic water-supply design, the peak (maximum) momentary draw-off per capita per minute is taken as which of the following values for the indicated number of users?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Service pipe and storage sizing for small buildings depends on anticipated peak draw-off rates, expressed as per-capita-per-minute values that vary with the number of simultaneous users. Such tabulated values inform plumbing fixture unit calculations and pipe sizing. Given Data / Assumptions: User groups: 5–10, 15, and 20 persons. Peak draw-off per capita per minute values are provided. Domestic (residential) context under Indian practice. Concept / Approach: For smaller groups, the per-capita peak rate is higher (lower diversity), and it decreases as the group size increases (higher diversity). The listed values reflect this: 1.80 L for 5–10 users, 1.20 L for 15 users, and 1.35 L for 20 users (intermediate diversity). All are recognized benchmarks for quick sizing. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Understand diversity effect: as users increase, individual coincidence factor drops.2) Apply tabulated per-capita peaks to compute total peak demand for the design group.3) Check pipe sizing against velocity and head-loss criteria using the computed peak. Verification / Alternative check: Cross-check with local water authority handbooks where similar per-capita peaks are suggested for preliminary design. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Each of A–C corresponds to a different group size; since all are standard, the comprehensive choice is correct. Common Pitfalls: Applying per-capita peaks from one group size to another without adjustment. Ignoring fixture unit method constraints and maximum allowable pipe velocities. Final Answer: All the above..

Question 14

When preparing a detailed cost estimate for a civil project, which factors must be considered to ensure realistic rates and accurate quantities?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Accurate estimates underpin budgeting, tendering, and cost control. Ignoring logistics or local labour markets can cause significant deviations between estimated and actual costs. Given Data / Assumptions: Project involves conventional civil works (earthwork, concrete, masonry, services). Market conditions vary by location and time. Concept / Approach: A comprehensive estimate accounts for material quantities, their availability and lead times, transport distances and modes, and site-specific labour productivity and wage rates. These together determine item rates in the bill of quantities. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Quantify materials from drawings/specifications.2) Assess availability (local suppliers, seasonal constraints).3) Compute transport costs (quarry/plant to site), including handling and stacking.4) Apply local wage rates and productivity norms to labour components. Verification / Alternative check: Compare derived rates with schedule-of-rates and recent tender outcomes to validate. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Each factor is essential; omitting any leads to skewed rates. Common Pitfalls: Assuming uniform material availability across regions. Underestimating transport for remote or urban-congested sites. Final Answer: All the above..

Question 15

In method-of-measurement terminology, excavation exceeding 1.5 m in width and 10 sq.m in plan area but with a depth not exceeding 30 cm is termed as which type of item?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Different excavation items are distinguished by width, area, and depth because equipment, productivity, and disposal differ. Recognizing the correct classification ensures the correct rate basis and prevents disputes. Given Data / Assumptions: Width > 1.5 m and plan area > 10 sq.m. Depth ≤ 0.30 m. Open excavation near the surface. Concept / Approach: Shallow removals over larger areas are classified as 'surface excavation'. In contrast, 'surface dressing' typically refers to light trimming or removing vegetation/topsoil to a very shallow depth (often up to 15 cm). Deeper or narrower cuts fall under general excavation or trenching items. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Check thresholds: depth ≤ 0.30 m → qualifies as shallow.2) Area and width exceed minimums → it is not a trench or isolated pit.3) Hence, classify the item as 'surface excavation'. Verification / Alternative check: Schedules of Rates and IS measurement guidelines enumerate 'surface excavation' with limits closely matching the given thresholds. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Excavation/Cutting: Generic terms but typically used for deeper removals. Surface dressing: Shallower and lighter operation than specified here. Common Pitfalls: Confusing topsoil stripping (surface dressing) with surface excavation. Misclassifying trenches as surface excavation when width ≤ 1.5 m. Final Answer: Surface excavation.

Question 16

In building measurement, brick walls are measured in square metres (area measurement) when the wall thickness is which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Measurement units for brickwork depend on thickness. Thin partitions are area-measured; full-thickness walls are volume-measured. This convention aligns the unit of measurement with how cost scales (per area for thin work, per volume for thick work). Given Data / Assumptions: Standard brickwork thicknesses: half-brick ≈ 10 cm, three-quarter ≈ 15 cm, full-brick ≈ 20–23 cm (nominal). Payment unit changes from Sq m to Cu m as thickness increases. Concept / Approach: Half-brick (about 100 mm) partitions are treated as areal items because their thickness is a single leaf and the principal driver of cost is covered area. Thicker walls are measured in cubic metres since material consumption scales with volume. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Identify thickness = 10 cm ⇒ half-brick wall.2) Apply area measurement convention for partitions/half-brick walls.3) Conclude: 10 cm thickness → Sq m measurement. Verification / Alternative check: Methods of measurement and SORs list 'Half-brick masonry in cement mortar' with unit Sq m, confirming practice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 15 cm, 20 cm: Usually measured in Cu m as they approach or exceed one-brick thickness. None of these: Incorrect because 10 cm is the standard threshold for Sq m measurement. Common Pitfalls: Measuring a 115 mm (nominal) partition in Cu m, leading to rate mismatches. Ignoring plaster thickness when computing wall areas (plaster measured separately). Final Answer: 10 cm.

Question 17

In highway construction surveying, cross-sections for a road are typically taken at right angles to the centre line, at standard intervals (e.g., 30 m), at intermediate points where the gradient changes abruptly, and at the start-and-end points of c…

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: For roadway earthwork estimation and geometric control, engineers take cross-sections of the proposed highway alignment at regular and critical locations. These cross-sections record ground levels, widths, and side slopes, enabling accurate quantity computation and design verification. Understanding where and how frequently to take sections is a core surveying skill in highway engineering. Given Data / Assumptions: We are discussing field practices for setting out and measuring cross-sections along a highway centre line. Standard interval often used in plain terrain is about 30 m, subject to project specifications. Additional sections are needed at geometric or topographic changes. Concept / Approach: Cross-sections are generally set perpendicular (right angle) to the road centre line to correctly intersect the ground profile and reflect true widths and side-slope lengths. Regular spacing (such as 30 m) captures gradual terrain changes efficiently. However, terrain is seldom perfectly uniform; hence, extra sections are taken wherever abrupt grade breaks occur (crest/sag points, cut-fill transitions) and at the beginning and end of horizontal or vertical curves. This ensures the volume computations (by average end area or prismoidal methods) are accurate and the design intent is properly represented. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the standard orientation: sections at right angles to the centre line → correct.Apply a regular spacing: e.g., every 30 m in fairly uniform ground → correct.Add intermediate sections: wherever the gradient or ground profile changes abruptly → correct.Include curve control: take sections at the start and end of curves to capture geometry → correct.Therefore, the inclusive choice is “All the above.” Verification / Alternative check: Highway survey manuals recommend denser spacing in undulating or rocky areas and at structures (culverts, bridges) to avoid under/over-estimation of earthwork. This aligns with the listed practice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Any single item alone is incomplete; robust practice requires all listed placements. Common Pitfalls: Using only fixed intervals regardless of terrain; failing to capture curve transitions; not taking sections perpendicular to the centre line, which leads to width and quantity errors. Final Answer: All the above.

Question 18

In building estimation, identify the item that is NOT included in the plinth area of a building measured at floor level to the outside of walls.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Plinth area is the built-up covered area measured at floor level to the outside of walls. It is widely used for preliminary cost estimation and benchmarking across building projects. Correctly knowing what is included or excluded avoids inflated or understated cost projections at the concept stage. Given Data / Assumptions: The plinth area includes all covered portions within the plinth outline as measured to outer wall faces. Ancillary vertical elements (lift wells, small shafts) inside the plinth are generally included per standard rules. Elements projecting beyond the plinth line may be excluded unless specifically stated otherwise by the measurement standard. Concept / Approach: Typical practice includes the thickness of walls, rooms, verandahs within the plinth, stair/lift cores, and internal shafts up to a limited area. A cantilevered porch that projects outside the plinth line is not part of the plinth area since it lies beyond the measured outer perimeter at floor level. It may be included in other area metrics (e.g., covered area) depending on the standard, but not in the strict plinth area if it is outside the plinth boundary. Step-by-Step Solution: Walls at floor level: included in plinth area → correct inclusion.Stair cover (mumty): a covered area over staircase, usually included in building area metrics → included.Sanitary shaft up to 2 sq.m: typically counted in plinth area → included.Lift well and landing within plinth: counted as they are covered structural areas → included.Cantilevered porch outside plinth line: excluded from plinth area → the “NOT included” item. Verification / Alternative check: Reference methods of measurement and public works handbooks distinguish between built-up/plinth area and projections beyond plinth lines. Porches that are cantilevered outside are not counted in plinth area. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Options A–D represent covered areas within the building’s plinth and are typically included. Common Pitfalls: Confusing plinth area with carpet or built-up area definitions; accidentally including open or projecting elements beyond the plinth line. Final Answer: Area of a cantilevered porch projecting beyond the plinth line

Question 19

According to standard building services practice, what is the recommended installation height of a wash basin (sink) rim above the finished floor level?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Ergonomic placement of plumbing fixtures affects user comfort, accessibility, and maintenance. The wash basin (also called a lavatory basin) height is standardized within a narrow band so that most users can comfortably wash hands without strain, and to coordinate with mirror heights and trap clearances. Given Data / Assumptions: The basin is wall-hung or pedestal-supported, with normal adult usage. Finished floor level (FFL) is the reference. Standardized height range is sought for general buildings. Concept / Approach: Most codes of practice and design handbooks recommend placing the rim of the wash basin at a height of approximately 0.75 m to 0.80 m above FFL. This range accommodates typical trap geometry, mixer fitting clearances, and user ergonomics. Special cases (children’s facilities, barrier-free design) involve different heights, but the general rule remains 75–80 cm for standard adult facilities. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify typical ergonomic band for adult-use basins.Select the option that provides the recommended range.Confirm coordination with mirror and accessory positioning. Verification / Alternative check: Handbooks on building services and public health engineering commonly cite the 0.75–0.80 m range; accessibility standards prescribe different values for barrier-free installations. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 60 cm or 70 cm: Too low for general adult use. 80 cm as a single value: Acceptable but lacks the common range; the preferred answer is the band 75–80 cm. Common Pitfalls: Not accounting for counter-top basins (where counter height matters); ignoring trap and bottle-siphon clearances. Final Answer: 75 cm to 80 cm

Question 20

For laying gullies, siphons, and intercepting traps in building drainage, the quoted cost generally includes which components of work?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Sanitary drainage items such as gullies, siphons, and intercepting traps are measured and paid as complete units of work. The quoted item typically subsumes associated tasks necessary to make the installation functional and compliant, avoiding separate micro-measurement of trivial sub-operations. Given Data / Assumptions: The scope concerns supply and installation of drainage fittings. Standard specifications require bedding, alignment, and leak-tight connections. Rates include normal ancillary works unless stated otherwise. Concept / Approach: Measurement rules bundle related operations—setting and laying, bed concrete (for support and level), and connections—into the principal item so that the unit rate covers a complete installation. This simplifies billing and ensures accountability for performance rather than piecemeal tasks. Step-by-Step Solution: Confirm inclusion of setting/laying in position.Confirm inclusion of bed concreting to drawings/specifications.Confirm inclusion of making tight, aligned connections to drains.Therefore, the comprehensive answer is “All of these.” Verification / Alternative check: Typical bills of quantities (BOQ) list such items as supply, lay, bed concrete, connect, and test, supporting the inclusive interpretation. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Partial inclusions omit essential operations that are standard with these fittings. Common Pitfalls: Overlooking testing and making-good, which are often stipulated alongside; underestimating bedding requirements in soft ground. Final Answer: All of these.

Estimating and Costing Questions