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Class B TradePlanning & Estimatingmedium14% of exam part

The utility spoils worksheet lists a trench 50 feet long, 2 feet wide, and 4.5 feet deep. How many cubic yards are excavated before swell?

Correct Answer

C) 16.67 cubic yards.

The trench volume is 50 x 2 x 4.5 = 450 cubic feet. Dividing by 27 gives 16.67 cubic yards.

Answer Options
A
14.44 cubic yards.
B
15.56 cubic yards.
C
16.67 cubic yards.
D
18.00 cubic yards.

Why This Is the Correct Answer

The trench volume is 50 x 2 x 4.5 = 450 cubic feet. Dividing by 27 gives 16.67 cubic yards.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

Option A: 14.44 cubic yards.

14.44 cubic yards. is below the supported result for excavation takeoff; it likely omits allowance, conversion, coverage, or final round-up.

Option B: 15.56 cubic yards.

15.56 cubic yards. is below the supported result for excavation takeoff; it likely omits allowance, conversion, coverage, or final round-up.

Option D: 18.00 cubic yards.

18.00 cubic yards. is above the supported result for excavation takeoff; it likely double-counts allowance, uses the wrong unit, or rounds too early.

Memory Technique

Estimating Utility takeoff: count the condition before counting the package.

Reference Hint

Study anchor (closed-book): memorize Excavation takeoff from CSLB B General Building Study Guide; California Building Code, Title. / Title 24 California Building Code sitework quantity concepts; know the rule or calculation trigger without relying on exam-room lookup.

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