<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The essential of a description in a bill of quantities is that it should satisfy the requirements laid down in the Standard Method of Measurement - SMM. Technically, if any description fails to do, it can be considered incorrect.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The various clauses in the SMM indicate the essentials of the description. But more information should be given where necessary to define the precise nature and extent of the work.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>SMM specifies that certain items are “deemed to be included”. Therefore, it is not necessary to refer to these items in any description.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The practical application of the SMM must be combined with a detailed knowledge of construction technology to formulate clear and brief descriptions.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The technique of writing descriptions may be acquired by application of the following rules;</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>1. List the essentials laid down in the relevant SMM clause.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>2. Use SMM phraseology.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>3. Selct necessary information from drawings and specifications.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>4. Re-arrange the sequence, if necessary, to provide a clear and concise description.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>Example:</strong></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:table -->
<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Level</td><td>Content</td><td>Example</td></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Main section heading (normally work section heading)</td><td>In-situ concrete</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Subsidiary division within the main heading identifying the work</td><td>Beds</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Details of materials and mix</td><td>1:3:6 (40 mm) or 11.50 <br>N/mm<sup>2</sup></td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Size range where applicable</td><td>thickness ≤150 mm</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Other variables where appropriate</td><td>poured on or against <br>un-blinded hardcore</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>
<!-- /wp:table -->