Gain valuable insights into the basics of construction estimating in this introductory course. Learn about the process of generating quantity takeoffs, understanding estimate cost categories, and best practices for bid delivery and estimate proposals.
Key Insights
- This course outlines the process of generating quantity takeoffs, including different methods of measuring and quantities, as well as understanding the master format and its application in the takeoff and estimate.
- Students will learn about estimate cost categories and associated cost factors, such as labor, material, equipment, subcontractor costs, and other miscellaneous costs.
- The course also provides a comprehensive understanding of general project conditions, risk analysis, and the best practices for delivering bids and estimate proposals to clients.
Note: These materials offer prospective students a preview of how our classes are structured. Students enrolled in this course will receive access to the full set of materials, including video lectures, project-based assignments, and instructor feedback.
Welcome to the Introduction to Construction Estimating course. This class is for anyone interested in the basics of how to estimate a construction project. Let’s begin by reviewing the learning objectives for this course.
Understanding the process of generating quantity takeoffs—this is where different methods of measuring quantities are applied, whether manually or digitally. Learn how to read MasterFormat and how it’s used in the quantity takeoff and estimating process.
It's important to know the MasterFormat numbering system, and make sure you refer to the MasterFormat handout provided for this class. Recognize estimating cost categories and associated cost factors such as labor, material, equipment, subcontractor costs, and “other” for anything that doesn’t fit the primary categories.
Review general project conditions and risk analysis. These refer to what it costs a company to operate a project along with associated risk factors. Discuss best practices for bid delivery and estimate proposals.
When we finish an estimate, how do we deliver it to the client? We will cover all these learning objectives in detail. These objectives will help you navigate estimating projects and apply general knowledge and principles in your workplace. I also want to make it clear what we will not be covering in this course.
Learn Construction Estimating
- Nationally accredited
- Create your own portfolio
- Free student software
- Learn at your convenience
- Authorized Autodesk training center
We will not be performing the takeoff, calculating unit costs, or creating the estimate spreadsheet. All those files will be provided in your handouts. We will explore all these topics conceptually but not perform them hands-on.
In this introductory course, we must begin to lay the foundations to understand the reasoning behind each step when preparing quantity takeoffs and estimates. I’m excited for this course and hope you are too. Let’s get started.
