Reading architectural drawing scales — 1/4" = 1'-0" House construction drawings are often plotted at a scale of 1/4" = 1'-0". What is the correct name for this scale?

Introduction / Context:
Scales convert real-world sizes to paper sizes while preserving proportions. In architectural practice, fractional inch-to-foot scales are common. Recognizing the name that corresponds to a given ratio helps communicate clearly with builders and ensures measurements are interpreted correctly on-site.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Scale shown: 1/4" = 1'-0" (one quarter of an inch on paper represents one foot in reality).
• Standard architectural scale names: full (1"=1"), half (1/2"=1'-0"), quarter (1/4"=1'-0"), etc.

Concept / Approach:
The nickname of a scale usually reflects the numerator of the inch fraction used for one foot. Thus, 1/4" per foot is called “Quarter scale.” It is widely used for floor plans and elevations because it balances readability and sheet space usage on sizes such as Arch D (24"×36").

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Architectural scale rulers contain labeled faces for 1/4"=1'-0" and other common scales, corroborating the naming convention used in practice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Half: corresponds to 1/2"=1'-0".
• Full: 1"=1'-0" (one-to-one at the foot level), uncommon for building plans.
• Double/One-to-one: not the conventional name for 1/4"=1'-0".

Common Pitfalls:

• Mistaking 1/4"=1'-0" for a metric scale; ensure units (inches and feet) are clearly indicated.

Final Answer:
Quarter