Heavy and civil engineering measurement (examination strategies)

Most often measurement of heavy and civil engineering works seems to be difficult to undertake, but in actual fact such measurements are as easy as those of building works and in some cases simpler or less voluminous in content during taking-off and billing. Below are some strategic steps that must be taken when writing measurement examinations for heavy and civil engineering works.

• Understand the construction methodology or sequence for carrying out the works
• Use the relevant standard method of measurement as required by the examination body 
• Follow the classifications in the relevant standard method of measurement for your take-off list
• Adhere to the format of description as specified by the relevant standard method of measurement 
• Read the drawings before attempting to prepare your take-off list
• Read the notes or additional information before attempting to prepare your take-off list
• Write down the take-off list to serve as a guide during taking-off and billing (BOQ preparation)
• Ensure you have at least seven (7) hours of sleep before the examination
• Allocate time for taking-off, abstracting and bill preparation; don't try to complete the taking-off to a 100% before abstracting, nor abstracting to a 100% before billing.
• Ensure you answer past question papers and time yourself during the practice.

DRAFT BILLS OF QUANTITIES

If the question requires that you prepare a draft bill ensure that you prepare the BOQ and at least insert the unit of measurement for the cost items described. You may be unable to finish the taking-off (happens in most cases) but endeavor to abstract the quantities for the items you were able to take-off and insert them in the BOQ.

EXAMINATION CONCEPT

Most often the examiners know fully well that time will not be enough to finish the question to a 100%, but once you are able to demonstrate that you know what you are doing and your work flows in a logical and conceptual manner, be rest assured that the examiner will surely appreciate your efforts and conclude that if given more time you would do a fine job. Hence the examiner is under a strong moral and academic obligation to give you a pass mark.