Plans and Elevations
Plans and Elevations
Plans and elevations are 2D drawings that represent a 3D object viewed from specific directions. Together they give enough information to reconstruct the full 3D shape.
The Three Standard Views
| View | Direction | Also called |
|---|---|---|
| Plan | Directly from above (bird's eye) | Top view |
| Front elevation | Directly from the front | Front view |
| Side elevation | Directly from the side (usually left) | Side view |
Drawing Conventions
- Visible edges: solid lines. Hidden edges: dashed lines (optional at GCSE).
- Each view is drawn to the same scale as the others in orthographic projection.
- The width of the front elevation equals the width of the plan. The height of the side elevation equals the height of the front elevation.
- In an exam: sketch all three views on squared paper, label each clearly, and mark key dimensions.
Key Takeaways
- Plan = view from directly above. Front elevation = view from directly in front. Side elevation = view from the side.
- The three views together uniquely describe most practical 3D shapes.
- Widths must match between plan and front elevation. Heights must match between front and side elevations.
- A step or recess in the 3D object appears as an L-shape in the relevant view.