Drawing and Planning Software — City & Guilds Limited End-Point Assessment Digital Skills & IT Revision

    This element focuses on developing essential skills in using drawing and planning software to create and manage graphical information efficiently. Learners

    Topic Synopsis

    This element focuses on developing essential skills in using drawing and planning software to create and manage graphical information efficiently. Learners will gain practical competence in inputting data (e.g., measurements, symbols, annotations), organising layers and object properties, and combining multiple elements into coherent drawings or plans. They will also learn to edit, manipulate, format, and present final outputs in a professional manner suitable for vocational contexts such as engineering, construction, or event planning.

    Key Concepts & Core Principles

    Exam Tips & Revision Strategies

    Common Misconceptions & Mistakes to Avoid

    Examiner Marking Points

    Drawing and Planning Software

    CITY & GUILDS LIMITED
    vocational

    This element focuses on developing essential skills in using drawing and planning software to create and manage graphical information efficiently. Learners will gain practical competence in inputting data (e.g., measurements, symbols, annotations), organising layers and object properties, and combining multiple elements into coherent drawings or plans. They will also learn to edit, manipulate, format, and present final outputs in a professional manner suitable for vocational contexts such as engineering, construction, or event planning.

    22
    Learning Outcomes
    44
    Assessment Guidance
    48
    Key Skills
    21
    Key Terms
    51
    Assessment Criteria

    Assessment criteria

    City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in IT User Skills
    City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills
    City & Guilds Level 3 Award for IT Users (ITQ)
    City & Guilds Level 2 Award for IT Users (ITQ)
    City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate for IT Users (ITQ)
    City & Guilds Level 3 Certificate for IT Users (ITQ)
    City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma for IT Users (ITQ)
    City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma for IT Users (ITQ)
    City & Guilds Level 1 Award for IT Users - (ITQ)
    City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate for IT Users (ITQ)
    City & Guilds Level 1 Diploma for IT Users (ITQ)

    Topic Overview

    The City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in IT User Skills is a vocational qualification designed to equip students with practical, industry-relevant IT competencies for the modern workplace. It covers a broad range of digital skills, from using office productivity software to understanding online safety and data management. This diploma is ideal for learners who want to demonstrate their ability to use IT effectively in a business environment, whether for administrative roles, customer service, or further study.

    The qualification is structured around mandatory units that build core IT user skills, such as word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation software, alongside optional units that allow specialisation in areas like website software, IT security, or digital imaging. Each unit focuses on real-world tasks, so you learn by doing—creating documents, analysing data, and solving problems using industry-standard tools like Microsoft Office or Google Workspace.

    Mastering these skills is crucial because digital literacy is now a baseline requirement for most jobs. This diploma not only prepares you for immediate employment but also lays the foundation for higher-level qualifications, such as the Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills or apprenticeships in digital roles. By the end of the course, you'll be confident in using IT to improve productivity, communicate effectively, and handle data responsibly.

    Key Concepts

    Core ideas you must understand for this topic

    • →File management: organising, saving, and retrieving files using appropriate folder structures and naming conventions to ensure efficient data retrieval.
    • →Data security: understanding the importance of passwords, backups, and antivirus software to protect personal and organisational data from threats.
    • →Software functionality: using features like mail merge in word processors, formulas in spreadsheets, and slide transitions in presentations to create professional outputs.
    • →Legal and ethical use: complying with copyright laws, data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR), and acceptable use policies when using digital resources.
    • →Troubleshooting: identifying common IT problems (e.g., printer issues, software crashes) and applying basic fixes or seeking appropriate help.

    Learning Objectives

    What you need to know and understand

    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Input diverse information types (e.g., measurements, images, CAD data) into drawing software accurately.
    • Organise drawing elements using layers, groups, and naming conventions for efficient workflow.
    • Combine information from multiple sources to create comprehensive plans or drawings.
    • Utilise advanced editing tools (e.g., trim, extend, fillet, array) to manipulate drawing content.
    • Apply formatting techniques to ensure drawings meet industry-specific standards (e.g., line weights, dimension styles).
    • Present completed drawings using appropriate output methods (e.g., plot styles, PDF export) for stakeholder review.
    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Input data and visual elements into drawing software using appropriate file formats and sources.
    • Organise and arrange layers, groups, or components to structure a drawing or plan effectively.
    • Combine multiple elements such as shapes, lines, text, and imported images to create a composite drawing.
    • Use basic editing tools to modify, resize, rotate, and align drawing objects.
    • Apply formatting techniques including color, line styles, and text formatting to enhance clarity and appearance.
    • Manipulate drawing views (zoom, pan, grid/snap) to achieve precision.
    • Present a final drawing or plan using appropriate output settings (e.g., print preview, export to PDF).

    Assessment Criteria

    Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio

    • Award credit for demonstrating accurate input of dimensional data and consistent application of scale across the drawing.
    • Award credit for effectively using layers or grouping to organise drawing elements, with logical naming conventions and correct object categorisation.
    • Award credit for combining imported data (e.g., raster images, CAD blocks, or external references) with manually created content, maintaining alignment and vector accuracy.
    • Award credit for proficient use of editing tools (trim, extend, offset, mirror, rotate) to modify geometry without distorting intended design intent.
    • Award credit for applying appropriate formatting features such as line weights, hatch patterns, text styles, and dimension styles to enhance clarity and meet conventional standards.
    • Award credit for preparing a presentation-ready output, including appropriate paper size, viewport scaling, and title block information, exported in a specified format (e.g., PDF, printed hard copy).
    • Award credit for accurate input of dimensions, coordinates, and object properties, ensuring precision in drawings.
    • Look for evidence of organized layering, grouping, and naming conventions that facilitate easy editing and understanding.
    • Expect consistent use of industry-appropriate symbols, line weights, and scale settings throughout the plan.
    • Provide credit for effective combination of multiple drawing elements from different sources, maintaining alignment and clarity.
    • Assess the presentation output: correct paper size, title block, annotations, and print/export settings.
    • Award credit for clearly demonstrating the ability to import and integrate external data (e.g., measurements, images, or CAD symbols) into a drawing file with accurate scale and positioning.
    • Evidence must show consistent use of editing and manipulation tools (trim, extend, mirror, array, etc.) to refine geometry and achieve the intended design, with annotations justifying each operation.
    • The final drawing or plan must exhibit professional formatting: appropriate layer management, dimension styles, text placement, and print layout settings that comply with industry conventions (e.g., BS 8888 for technical drawings).
    • Assessors should look for evidence of version control and iterative refinement, such as saved stages or a change log, demonstrating a systematic approach to planning and editing.
    • Award credit for demonstrating the ability to import external data (e.g., raster images, spreadsheets) and accurately position, scale, or trace them within the drawing.
    • Award credit for effectively organising content using layers, groups, or blocks to enable selective editing, visibility control, and efficient workflow.
    • Award credit for applying consistent formatting through object properties (line weights, fills, text styles) and using annotation tools to enhance clarity and presentation.
    • Award credit for using Boolean operations or combine/shape builder tools to merge, subtract, or intersect geometry from multiple sources into a single, coherent entity.
    • Award credit for demonstrating the ability to import and correctly align multiple data sources (e.g., images, measurements, text) into a single drawing file.
    • Award credit for using a range of editing tools (e.g., trim, extend, mirror, array) accurately to modify drawing elements according to given specifications.
    • Award credit for applying consistent formatting (layers, line types, hatching, dimension styles) and presenting the final drawing in a suitable output format with appropriate title blocks or annotations.
    • Award credit for demonstrating the ability to import data from external sources (e.g., CSV files, image files, or other CAD formats) and accurately place it within the drawing.
    • Award credit for using layering or grouping techniques to organize complex information effectively.
    • Award credit for applying precise editing tools (trim, extend, fillet, etc.) to manipulate geometric elements with accuracy.
    • Award credit for producing a final output with consistent formatting, including appropriate line weights, text styles, and dimensioning, and presenting it in a suitable format (e.g., PDF, printed plan).
    • Award credit for accurately importing and aligning external data (e.g., dimensions, symbols) into the drawing canvas.
    • Evidence of using layers to logically organize elements and applying consistent formatting (line weights, colours, text styles) throughout.
    • Demonstrate precise use of editing tools (trim, extend, offset, mirror) to refine geometry and correct errors.
    • Present final output with appropriate title blocks, annotations, and print settings for professional submission.
    • Award credit for demonstrating correct use of coordinate systems and precision input.
    • Evidence of using at least three editing tools effectively.
    • Drawings must show consistent application of a recognised standard (e.g., BS 1192).
    • Marks for effective layering and organisation that enhance clarity.
    • Credit for combining external data (e.g., importing a survey plan) seamlessly.
    • Award credit for demonstrating the ability to import or insert external information (e.g., images, symbols) into the drawing canvas.
    • Award credit for organising drawing components into logical layers or groups to improve manageability and clarity.
    • Award credit for selecting and applying appropriate editing tools to modify shapes, lines, and text (e.g., resize, rotate, align).
    • Award credit for applying consistent formatting, such as line weights, colours, and text styles, to enhance presentation.
    • Award credit for producing a final plan or drawing that is accurately scaled, labeled, and suitable for its intended purpose.
    • Award credit for demonstrating the ability to insert and arrange basic shapes, lines, and text to build a drawing or plan.
    • Provide evidence of using editing tools to resize, rotate, and reposition elements within a layout.
    • Demonstrate the use of formatting options such as colour fills, line styles, and fonts to enhance clarity and visual appeal.
    • Show consistent alignment and distribution of objects to create a tidy, professional outcome.
    • Include appropriate annotations, labels, or a legend to contextualise the drawing or plan.
    • Save and present the final work in a suitable file format, ensuring it is ready for sharing or printing.
    • Award credit for demonstrating the ability to create a new drawing file and set up appropriate page size and units.
    • Mark for importing at least one external file (e.g., image or CAD block) and placing it correctly.
    • Credit for using layers to separate different types of information (e.g., dimensions, annotations).
    • Award marks for applying consistent formatting (line weights, text styles) across the drawing.
    • Evidence of using alignment or snap tools to ensure accuracy and neatness.

    Assessment Guidance

    Guidance for achieving higher grades

    • 💡Always begin by setting the correct drawing units and limits; annotate your work to show you have planned the space before drawing.
    • 💡Use keyboard shortcuts and context-sensitive right-click menus to speed up editing tasks and reduce reliance on cluttered toolboxes—this demonstrates efficiency.
    • 💡Before submitting, perform a final check using the software's print preview or layout view to ensure all required elements are visible and correctly scaled.
    • 💡Include a title block on your layout with your name, date, drawing title, and scale; this is a basic but often missed professional requirement that earns easy marks.
    • 💡Always begin by checking and setting the drawing environment: units, scale, page setup, and grid/snap settings.
    • 💡Annotate your work process with screenshots and descriptions to demonstrate your editing and manipulation techniques.
    • 💡Show clear progression from raw input to final presentation, including any revisions or combination of files.
    • 💡Present final plans with a professional title block, including project details and your name, to simulate real-world standards.
    • 💡When completing assignments, always follow a structured workflow: first set up the drawing template and units, then input base information, organize into layers, and finally apply formatting and annotations.
    • 💡Practice using keyboard shortcuts and command aliases for common editing tools to speed up your work and demonstrate efficiency during timed tasks.
    • 💡Review the City & Guilds assessment criteria carefully; explicit screenshots or video evidence of you using specific tools and justifying choices will earn higher marks than simply submitting a finished drawing.
    • 💡Carefully review assignment specifications to identify exactly which editing and formatting techniques must be evidenced, and plan your drawing’s layer structure and data sources accordingly.
    • 💡Include process evidence such as screenshots at key stages, supported by brief annotations explaining how you imported, combined, and manipulated objects—this directly addresses marking criteria for organising and editing.
    • 💡Always check your drawing for consistency in line weights, text sizes, and colour usage before final presentation; assessors will credit attention to professional formatting standards.
    • 💡Familiarise yourself with the software’s version history or backup features to avoid data loss—losing work is not an acceptable excuse for incomplete evidence.
    • 💡Always set up drawing environment (units, limits, layers) before starting to input data; this saves time and ensures consistency when combining information.
    • 💡When presenting final output, check all line weights and text sizes are legible at intended print scale, and export/print to a format that preserves vector quality if required.
    • 💡Always begin by setting up the drawing parameters (units, scale, paper size) to match the project requirements before any input.
    • 💡Use a logical layer naming convention and color coding to keep the drawing organized and make editing easier.
    • 💡Regularly save and version your work to avoid loss of progress and to demonstrate stages of development if required.
    • 💡When presenting, ensure that the output is checked against the original brief for completeness, accuracy, and professional appearance; a well-laid-out drawing sheet with title block can earn additional marks.
    • 💡Before printing or exporting, use ‘zoom extents’ to check for hidden or incomplete objects that may affect your drawing's integrity.
    • 💡Save iterative versions of your file to showcase process improvements, which can serve as evidence for assessment criteria.
    • 💡Master keyboard shortcuts for common operations (copy, paste, undo, zoom) to work efficiently under timed conditions.
    • 💡In plan presentations, use viewports in paper space to control scale and layout cleanly without altering the model space.
    • 💡Always start by setting up the drawing environment (units, limits, layers) correctly.
    • 💡Review the assignment brief carefully to identify all required output formats.
    • 💡Practice using keyboard shortcuts to improve speed and efficiency during timed assessments.
    • 💡Submit a completed drawing checklist alongside your work to demonstrate thoroughness.
    • 💡Save multiple versions of your work as you progress to avoid losing data and to allow backtracking if needed.
    • 💡Plan the layout on paper first to visualise the composition and identify necessary elements before starting on screen.
    • 💡Customise the toolbar and learn keyboard shortcuts for frequently used tools to speed up the design process.
    • 💡Use the software’s grid, snap, and alignment features to ensure precision when placing objects.
    • 💡Review the final output against the original brief to check that all required information is present and correctly formatted.
    • 💡Always start by setting up the page size and orientation correctly for the intended output (screen or print).
    • 💡Use layers to separate different components of the drawing, making it easier to edit without affecting other parts.
    • 💡When creating plans, utilise alignment tools (e.g., distribute horizontally/vertically) to maintain consistency.
    • 💡Before final submission, zoom out to check overall layout and print preview to confirm nothing is cut off.
    • 💡Practice common keyboard shortcuts (e.g., copy, paste, undo) to work more efficiently during timed assessments.
    • 💡Read the task brief carefully to identify required elements and output format.
    • 💡Use grid and snap features to ensure accuracy and alignment.
    • 💡Always save versions and back up files to avoid data loss.
    • 💡Practice with the specific software interface before the assessment.
    • 💡Check for consistency in colors, line weights, and text styles.
    • 💡Always read the task brief carefully—many marks are lost because students miss specific requirements like 'use a formula' or 'apply a consistent style'. Underline key verbs such as 'create', 'format', or 'calculate'.
    • 💡Save your work regularly and keep backup copies. If your file corrupts during the exam, you'll lose all progress. Use 'Save As' to create versions at each stage.
    • 💡For spreadsheet tasks, check your formulas by testing with simple numbers you can verify manually. This catches errors before they cost you marks.

    Common Mistakes

    Common errors to avoid in your coursework

    • Forgetting to set units and scale at the start, leading to disproportionate drawings that cannot be accurately plotted.
    • Drawing everything on default layer 0 instead of creating and assigning logical layers, which makes editing and isolating elements difficult later.
    • Misusing scale factors when inserting blocks or external references, causing elements to appear too large or small relative to the drawing environment.
    • Overlooking the need to purge unused objects or audit the file, resulting in bloated file sizes and potential corruption.
    • Applying hatch patterns to unclosed boundaries, causing hatch to spill over or not generate, leading to incomplete visual representation.
    • Exporting or printing without checking lineweights in the plot style table, resulting in faint or overly thick lines that obscure detail.
    • Neglecting to set appropriate scale or units before starting the drawing, leading to inaccurate proportions.
    • Overuse of freehand drawing tools instead of precise geometric construction, resulting in messy plans.
    • Failing to lock or manage layers, causing accidental movement or editing of background elements.
    • Using inconsistent formatting (fonts, dimensions styles) that detracts from professional appearance.
    • Saving or exporting in incorrect file formats unsuitable for the intended use or assessor review.
    • Neglecting to set up the drawing environment correctly at the start (e.g., wrong units, limits, or scale), leading to scaling issues when importing or combining information.
    • Over-reliance on basic shapes without using precision tools like object snaps, grid alignment, or coordinate input, resulting in inaccuracies.
    • Applying inconsistent or excessive formatting (e.g., multiple font types, haphazard use of colours and line weights) that undermines clarity and professional standards.
    • Failing to manage external references (XREFs) or linked data properly, causing broken links or outdated information in the final plan.
    • Using inappropriate software for the task, such as attempting to create scalable technical plans in a raster-based program like Photoshop instead of a vector tool like AutoCAD or Illustrator.
    • Neglecting to save work in a format that preserves editability (e.g., native file) and instead exporting prematurely to a non-editable format, losing layer and object data.
    • Manual positioning without using grid, snap, or alignment tools, leading to inaccuracies in spacing, symmetry, or junctions.
    • Overcomplicating drawings by not using symbols, blocks, or copy/array functions for repetitive elements, resulting in inconsistent scaling and increased file size.
    • Failing to organise layers effectively, resulting in cluttered drawings where elements are difficult to isolate and edit.
    • Incorrect scaling or dimensioning when combining inputs from different sources, leading to inaccurate plans.
    • Overlooking the use of templates or missing standardised elements such as title blocks, which reduces professional presentation.
    • Incorrect scaling when importing data from different sources, leading to misaligned elements.
    • Failing to use layers or groups, resulting in cluttered and difficult-to-edit drawings.
    • Overuse of manual drawing over precise coordinate input, leading to inaccuracies.
    • Neglecting to check print/plot settings, causing cropped or incorrectly scaled output in the final presentation.
    • Failing to set drawing units and scale correctly at the start, leading to proportion errors and measurement inaccuracies.
    • Over-reliance on manual formatting instead of using templates or style sheets, causing inconsistency in font, symbol, and line types.
    • Grouping or blocking objects prematurely without considering future edits, making selective adjustments difficult.
    • Not utilizing alignment and distribution tools, resulting in uneven spacing and misaligned components.
    • Misusing scale factors, leading to inaccurate printed output.
    • Overcomplicating the drawing with unnecessary detail that hinders readability.
    • Neglecting to lock or hide layers, causing accidental edits.
    • Inconsistent annotation styles across the plan.
    • Neglecting to use layers or groups, resulting in a disorganised canvas that is difficult to edit later.
    • Using inaccurate scaling or proportions when combining elements from different sources, leading to unrealistic plans.
    • Overlooking alignment and distribution tools, causing elements to appear misaligned and unprofessional.
    • Applying inconsistent text styles or dimensions, which confuses the interpretation of the drawing.
    • Forgetting to save work in an appropriate file format that preserves editability or is compatible with output requirements.
    • Confusing the use of line and shape tools, leading to inaccurate or messy diagrams.
    • Neglecting to group related objects before moving or resizing, causing misalignment.
    • Forgetting to lock or set grid and snap options, resulting in imprecise placement.
    • Applying excessive formatting (e.g., too many fonts or colours) that detracts from readability.
    • Failing to save work regularly, risking loss of progress or corrupting files.
    • Confusing drawing scales or not setting scale correctly, leading to inaccurate plans.
    • Forgetting to save work in a compatible format for sharing or printing.
    • Over-reliance on freehand drawing without using alignment or snap tools.
    • Poor layer management resulting in disorganized files.
    • Misconception: 'IT skills are just about knowing how to use a computer.' Correction: The diploma emphasises applying skills in a business context—like creating a budget spreadsheet or designing a presentation for a client—not just basic computer use.
    • Misconception: 'Formulas in spreadsheets are too hard; I'll just type the numbers manually.' Correction: Formulas save time and reduce errors. For example, using =SUM(A1:A10) is faster and more accurate than adding numbers with a calculator.
    • Misconception: 'I don't need to learn file management because I can search for files.' Correction: Effective file management prevents data loss and improves efficiency. Searching can be slow if files are poorly named or stored in random locations.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions students ask about this topic

    Before You Start

    Prior knowledge that will help with this topic

    • •Basic computer literacy: ability to turn on a computer, use a mouse and keyboard, and open/close applications.
    • •Familiarity with common software interfaces: knowing how to navigate menus, toolbars, and dialog boxes in programs like Microsoft Word or Excel.
    • •Understanding of file types: recognising .docx, .xlsx, .pptx, and .pdf extensions and their typical uses.

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Data input and organisation
    • Layer and component management
    • Precision editing and manipulation
    • Professional formatting and presentation
    • Integration of multiple data sources
    • Technical drawing standards compliance
    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Input, organise and combine information for drawings or plans, Use tools and techniques to edit, manipulate, format and present drawings or plans
    • Digital Drawing Basics
    • Information Organisation
    • Editing and Manipulation
    • Presentation and Formatting
    • Tool Selection and Usage
    • Accuracy and Specifications

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