# The Estimating Process & Takeoffs
An estimate is a **prediction of cost** — and your whole business rides on getting it close.
## The process
1. **Review the documents** — plans, specs, and scope.
2. **Quantity takeoff** — measure the quantities of work from the drawings (square feet, linear feet, cubic yards, counts).
3. **Price it** — apply costs for **labor, material, equipment, and subcontractors**.
4. **Add overhead and profit** (next lesson).
## Make the takeoff accurate
- Use **current pricing** and **real subcontractor/supplier quotes** — not last year's guesses.
- Lean on your **historical job-cost data** (this is why job costing matters).
- Double-check units and quantities — a takeoff error multiplies through the whole bid.
**Takeaway:** A good estimate starts with an accurate takeoff and real, current pricing — guessing is how you bleed.
> *Educational content — not legal, financial, or accounting advice. Run your numbers with your CPA.*
