Methods of Estimation MCQ with answer and solution

Concept

A detailed estimate is prepared item by item using the unit quantity (or total quantity) method.

Step-by-step solution

1. A detailed estimate needs the quantity of each item of work. 2. In the unit quantity method, each item is measured separately and multiplied by its unit rate. 3. Bay, cubic content and square metre methods are approximate (preliminary) estimate methods. 4. Answer is (B).

Explanation

A detailed estimate finds the exact quantity and cost of every item, such as earthwork, concrete and brickwork. This is done by the unit quantity method or the total quantity method. The other options give only rough cost.

Why the other options are wrong

(A) The bay method is an approximate method, used for buildings with repeating bays. (C) The cubic content method is an approximate method based on the volume of the building. (D) The square metre (plinth area) method is an approximate method based on area.

Shortcut

Detailed = item-wise = unit quantity method. All other methods are approximate.

Common mistake

Students may confuse the plinth area or cubic content method with a detailed estimate.