A _____ is a drawing that represents a floor or other horizontal surface as viewed directly from above.

A plan is a drawing that provides a top-down view of a building or space, illustrating the layout of walls, doors, windows, and other architectural features. It captures the arrangement and relationship of different spaces, allowing for a clear understanding of how a space is utilized. Plans are essential in architectural design as they serve as a foundational tool for both the design process and the eventual construction of a structure. By representing a horizontal surface as seen from directly above, a plan provides critical information regarding dimensions, spatial relationships, and functional areas, which is key for architects, builders, and other stakeholders in the construction process.

In contrast, a section shows a vertical cut through a building, providing insights into heights and relationships of different levels; an elevation depicts the exterior views of a building, showcasing its façade; and a perspective drawing offers a three-dimensional view of a space, enhancing depth perception. Each of these serves specific purposes in architectural representation, but the plan uniquely conveys information about the layout from a bird’s-eye perspective.