Writing Clear Specifications Flashcards

Which imperative voice construction is preferred in CSI specification writing?

Answer: The contractor shall install

Active imperative constructions like 'the contractor shall install' assign clear responsibility and avoid ambiguity.

In specification writing, the word 'should' versus 'shall' indicates:

Answer: A recommendation versus a mandatory requirement

'Shall' indicates a mandatory requirement, while 'should' indicates a recommendation or preferred practice.

What is the purpose of a 'Part 1 – General' section in a CSI MasterFormat Section?

Answer: To define scope, references, submittals, and administrative requirements

Part 1 covers administrative and procedural requirements including scope, references, quality assurance, and submittals.

Which of the following best describes a 'closed' specification?

Answer: A specification that allows no substitutions and names a single product

A closed specification names a proprietary product with no substitutions allowed, limiting contractor choice.

When editing specifications for clarity, redundant phrases should be eliminated. Which phrase is redundant?

Answer: 'Completely and thoroughly clean'

'Completely and thoroughly' are synonymous; one word suffices and eliminates unnecessary redundancy.

In the context of specification writing, 'reference standards' serve what primary purpose?

Answer: To establish minimum acceptable quality without restating detailed technical criteria

Reference standards incorporate industry-accepted criteria by reference, avoiding the need to restate complex technical requirements.

Which specification style lists performance requirements and allows manufacturers to demonstrate compliance through testing?

Answer: Performance specification

Performance specifications define required end results and allow any product that meets those measurable criteria.