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How to Count Items in TakeCost

Count items (like doors, fixtures, outlets, or symbols) directly on your drawings and track totals automatically.

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Written by TakeCost
Updated today

Step 1: Choose How You Want to Count

When starting a count, you’ll choose between three methods:

1. Count Method

  • Manual – place items one by one

  • Symbol Match – find all matching symbols automatically

  • Match Text – find items based on labels (e.g., D1, WH)

2. Scope (Material)

  • Select a material from the list

  • Or choose Unclassified to get started

Then click Start Take-off

πŸ“Œ Tip: If you’re unsure, start with Unclassified β€” you can name it later

Step 2: Place or Generate Counts

Manual

  • Click each item to add a count

  • Each click = 1 count

To stop or finish the measurement:

  • Press Enter to complete the count

  • Press Esc to cancel

  • Or click the Count tool again in the toolbar to exit the measurement mode

Symbol Match

  • Click and drag to select a region over one symbol

  • Matching items will be highlighted in grey

  • Review how many were found

  • Click to adjust if needed

  • Press Esc to confirm

Match Text

  • Enter text to search

  • Matching items will be counted automatically

Step 3: Name & Adjust (Properties Panel)

After placing counts:

  • Select the count on the drawing

  • The Properties panel opens on the right

  • If using Unclassified:

    • Enter a Name of Scope

  • Or assign/select a material

πŸ“Œ Click the count again if the panel is not visible

Step 4: (Optional) Use Smart Scope

  • In the Properties panel, locate Smart Scope

  • Select a type (e.g., Door, Window, Column)

  • Or leave as None

πŸ“Œ Smart Scope is optional

Step 5: Review Quantities

  • Counts update instantly

  • View totals in the Quantities panel (left side)

  • Click Review Quantities for details

πŸ“Œ Items are grouped by material

Where do I find my Materials or Properties panel?

  • The Properties panel only appears when a count is selected

  • Clicking off will close it

To reopen:

  • Click any count point or group

Pro Tips

  • Start with Unclassified if unsure

  • Use Symbol Match for repeated items

  • Double-check highlighted matches before confirming

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