Unfortunately I did not pass the vignette section of CDS the first time, so I have focused on this and would appreciate any feedback. I initially practiced 5 vignettes, in which I thought I would seek feedback...and I still have a couple more to practice before the exam. I initially watched the DORF video, took notes and used that approach. It is a good approach, however I found that sbyrktct's Vignette tips/methodology to work the best, which is:
1. slab on grade... bottom of slab at grade level not top of slab at grade level
2. bring foundation wall up to t.o. slab
3. put bearing walls on foundations, not on slab
4. t.o. footing at frost depth (***I consulted with others on this forum, and went with B.O. Footers at Frost -- and passed)
5. interior bearing wall set on foundation wall, but footing is directly below slab
6. interior non-rated partitions extend 6" above finished ceiling
7. interior rated partitions go from t.o. slab to b.o. floor deck and t.o. floor deck to b.o. roof deck
8. break finished ceiling at each partition/bearing wall
9. joists/deck extend 4" into bearing walls
10. plenum depth = 8" (for lighting) + largest joist/duct combo found in that ceiling
*In general, I found these easiest to do by importing backgrounds into CAD and drafting on top of them. I didn't use the right lineweights, rather the same colors that NCARB used so that things will seem familiar when I sit for the exam. Please don't give me feedback on lineweights!
Vignette 1: This looks like an older vignette, which added more complexity than what I hope we can expect on the exam-particularly the grade differences. FYI, windows won't be included on the actual...but good practice. I had to do this one twice to get the grading correct. If anything looks incorrect, feedback is welcome!
Please see other vignettes for providing feedback, if you feel inclined. Thanks again!