Top 40 Revit Architecture Interview Questions: For Entry-Level, Intermediate, & Experienced Candidates

Revit is a leading building information modeling (BIM) software, widely used by construction professionals, engineers, and architects. As more firms enter the market offering architectural, engineering, and construction development services, the demand for skilled Revit professionals has seen significant growth. If you are preparing for a job interview, understanding the common Revit architecture interview questions can help you highlight your strong understanding of the software and its features. Whether you’re a beginner, an intermediate user, or an experienced professional, these questions will allow you to showcase your hands-on experience with Revit.

Revit Architecture Interview Questions 

To stand out in Revit architecture interviews, it’s essential to have a strong understanding of the software’s fundamentals as well as its latest features. To help you out, we have compiled the top interview questions for Revit architecture along with sample answers. 

1. Interview Questions on Revit Architecture for Freshers

If you are looking to start a career as a Revit architect, it is essential to be thoroughly prepared for your interview. Here are some of the common beginner-level questions that you might come across in your next interview.

Q1. What do you understand by Revit architecture?

Sample Answer: Revit architecture is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) that was developed by Autodesk, particularly for construction professionals and draughtsmen. It is an engineering configuration and documentation programming framework, enabling its users to build and maintain a 3D digital model of a building. By doing so, it allows complex building systems to be accurately outlined in a short span of time. This helps in the improvement made in one part of the model to spread naturally to other parts of the model.

Q2. What are the benefits of using a Revit architecture?

Sample Answer: Revit offers several key benefits that make it a powerful tool for architects and engineers. Some of the benefits of using Revit architecture include: 

• Stop problems before they escalate: Revit allows for early identification of design conflicts, preventing costly fixes and delays. 
• Save time and money: By streamlining workflows and reducing errors, Revit makes it easier to complete projects with less effort, resulting in increased profits for all involved. It’s like finding an express route towards project completion.
• Create better buildings: With the ability to collaborate seamlessly, architects and engineers can come together to create structures that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also energy-efficient 

Q3. What exactly is Revit software? Why do professionals use it?

Sample Answer: Revit is a part of Building Information Modeling (BIM) software used by construction experts worldwide when designing structures or infrastructure elements electronically. Additionally, Revit allows architects, engineers, and other specialists to work together on the same model at the same time. This real-time collaboration makes it easier to coordinate efforts, catch design issues early, and keep projects on track. Revit is also popular because it helps create precise construction documents, organize project schedules, and even perform analyses like energy modeling, making it a vital tool in today’s construction and architecture projects.

Q4. What are the different file types used in Revit?

Sample Answer: The various file types utilized within Revit architecture include: 

• Revit Project Files (.RVT)
• Revit Family Files (.RFA)
• Revit Template Files (.RTE)
• Revit Family Template Files (.RFT)

Q5. How do you create levels in Revit architecture? 

Sample Answer: To create levels in Revit, I first start by opening a new project and selecting the appropriate metric option. This automatically loads the default template for that unit. By default, Revit provides two levels, but if I need to add more, I go to the north elevation view. From there, I go to the main menu, select “Level” under the Datum section, and click “New Level” from the ribbon. I then specify the name and height of the new level as needed. This process ensures the levels are set up for accurate modeling.

Q6. What are the steps involved in creating a floor in Revit architecture?

Sample Answer: To create a floor using the Sketch tool in Revit, we can use the following steps:

• Activate your project file and go to the first-floor plan.
• Click on ‘View’ at the top of your screen.
• From the home tab’s ribbon options, select the ‘Floor’ tool. 
• The first-floor plan will appear half-toned which allows you to use it as a reference while sketching out your new floor design. 
• Using drawing tools such as rectangles, circles, and lines, you can create a boundary for your new floor. 
• Once satisfied with the design, click on ‘Finish Sketch’ to complete the process.

Q7. How can you copy Revit Project settings to other projects?

Sample Answer: To copy settings between Revit projects, I use the Transfer Project Standards tool. This tool allows me to bring project standards like view templates, materials, and object styles from one project into another. Here’s how I usually do it:

• First, I go to the Manage tab and select Transfer Project Standards from the Settings panel.
• A dialog box will appear where I choose the source project and select which specific settings I want to copy.
• I can then check or uncheck options depending on what’s needed for the new project.
• If Revit detects duplicate items, it gives me options to either ignore them, select only the new types, or overwrite the existing ones.
• There are also options to save a conflict list or remove unnecessary duplicates, which helps keep things clean and organized.

Q8. What are the benefits of using Revit over traditional CAD software?

Sample Answer: This is one of the most commonly asked Revit architect interview questions. Revit offers several advantages over traditional CAD software, including:

• It provides a collaborative 3D modeling environment.
• Changes are automatically updated across all views, reducing errors.
• It allows for building performance simulation and visualization.
• The software integrates design, documentation, and construction processes more seamlessly.

Q9. How can engineers, architects, and designers benefit from Revit?

Sample Answer: Revit provides numerous advantages for design professionals, such as:

• It enables better interdisciplinary coordination through a shared model.
• The software significantly reduces rework, saving time and costs.
• It offers robust tools for building analysis and design optimization.
• Revit facilitates improved project outcomes through integrated workflows.

Q10. Can you modify an object after adding them to a project? Explain.

Sample Answer: Yes, objects can be modified after being added to a project. The process involves:

• Selecting the desired object in the model.
• Utilizing various modification tools available in Revit’s interface.
• Adjusting parameters, dimensions, or properties as needed.
• Changes are automatically updated across all related views and schedules.

Q11. How can you modify Revit Mass in X-ray mode?

Sample Answer: Modifying a Revit Mass in X-ray mode is a straightforward process that enhances your ability to see and manipulate the elements clearly. Here’s how I typically do it:

• First, I open the mass family and select the mass to reveal the contextual tab.
• Then, I activate X-ray mode from the Revit ribbon. This makes the mass appear transparent, allowing me to see the sub-objects more clearly.
• Once in X-ray mode, I can add a profile by selecting “Add Profile” from the ribbon.
• I position the new profile using the preview and then simply click to place it.
• Finally, I fine-tune the mass by manipulating points, edges, and surfaces as needed to get the design just right.

Q12. How can you add structural columns in Revit architecture?

Sample Answer: To add structural columns in Revit Architecture, I follow these steps:

• Double-click on Level 1 in the project browser.
• In the Home tab, open the column dropdown and select “Structural Column”.
• Choose your desired column type (e.g., concrete-regular 300x450mm).
• Place columns at grid intersections, ensuring the grid lines turn purple to confirm central placement.

Q13. How is a project file different from a family file?

Sample Answer: Project files and family files serve different purposes in Revit, such as:

• Project files contain the entire building model and all project-related data while family files are used to create individual building components like doors, windows, or furniture.
• Project files integrate multiple families and systems, while family files focus on single elements.

Q14. What is the View Range tool?

Sample Answer: The View Range tool in Revit helps you control what you see in a floor plan or section view. It lets you set limits for how much of a building or area is visible. You can adjust the cut plane, which is like a slice through the building, to show different levels and elements above or below that plane. This way, you can focus on specific parts of a design, making it easier to work on details and understand the layout.

2. Interview Questions on Revit Architecture for Intermediate Candidates

Having prior experience with a company or working on projects using Revit can strengthen your job profile in the eyes of potential employers. However, it’s still crucial to demonstrate your fundamental understanding of the software. To help you highlight your technical skills, we’ve put together some sample Revit architecture interview questions and answers. These will allow you to showcase your proficiency effectively.

Q15. Why are templates important?

Sample Answer: Templates are essential since they provide a standardized starting point for BIM projects while ensuring consistent parameters and settings so that all team members follow similar guidelines. This is particularly helpful while building a project for a company that has to conform to company standards.

Q16. How can you create a floor edge slab and custom component?

Sample Answer: To create a floor edge slab, I typically follow these steps:

• I start by opening a new family using the “metric profile hosted.rfa” template.
• Next, I create and save the custom profile that I want to use for the edge slab.
• After that, I load this profile into my project.
• Then, I go to the floor plan view and activate the floor slab edge tool.
• In the Element Properties, I duplicate and rename an existing type to create a new edge type.
• Finally, I apply the new slab edge to the floor edges at the voids.

Q17. What is a workset in Revit?

Sample Answer: A workset in Revit is a way to divide a project into manageable sections. It allows multiple people to work on the same project simultaneously without interfering with each other’s work. Each workset can contain different parts of the project, like floors or rooms, making it easier to organize and control what gets worked on. 

Q18. What is the role of project parameters?

Sample Answer: Project parameters in Revit play an important role in managing project details. They allow you to add extra information that’s specific to your project, like the names of architects or construction companies. You can also use project parameters to change properties, such as dimensions or colors of building elements. This helps improve project documentation and makes it easier to manage data.

Q19. What is Family Editor, and when is it generally used?

Sample Answer: The Family Editor is a tool inside of Revit that allows you to create custom families of objects. This is useful if you need to create an object that is not already available in the Revit library, or if you need to modify an existing object to better suit your needs. Some examples of when you might need to use the Family Editor include creating a custom door or window or creating a custom piece of furniture.

Q20. How can parts be created on Revit architecture?

Sample Answer: This is one of the most commonly asked Revit interview questions. To create parts in Revit architecture, I follow these steps:

• First, I click on the Modify tab.
• Then, I go to the Create panel and select Parts.
• Next, I choose the elements I want to create parts from in the drawing area.
• Finally, I press Enter or the Spacebar to finish the process.

Q21. Can custom filters be created on Revit?

Sample Answer: Yes, filters can be created on Revit. Here are the steps I follow to do so:

• Go to the View tab.
• Select ‘Filters’.
• Click on the ‘New Filter’ button.
• Choose the elements you want to include or exclude in your filter.
• Name your customized filter.

Q22. How can custom labels be added to Revit Sheets?

Sample Answer: You can add custom labels on Revit sheets by following the given steps:

• Open the dialog box.
• Take the cursor to the ‘home’ tab.
• Select the label in the text panel.
• Select the place where you want to add the label.
• Select add a new parameter.
• Once a new dialog box appears, select it.
• Select the shared parameters. Click ‘Ok’.
• Repeat the steps until you have the desired number of labels for the sheet.

Q23. What would you suggest to someone who has just started using Revit?

Sample Answer: In order to make the most use of Revit, people should familiarize themselves with the user interface and all the available tools. Though it can be overwhelming at times, becoming accustomed to its UI can help a lot. Additionally, start with simple projects and work your way up. Finally, take as many online courses and tutorials to help you with the software.

Q24. Define view template.

Sample Answer: A view template is a set of predefined settings. This consists of settings such as discipline, view scale, detail level, and visibility settings. It can be applied to multiple views to maintain consistency and avoid any unintentional changes.

3. Revit Architecture Interview Questions and Answers for Experienced Candidates

For experienced candidates, interviewers tend to ask more advanced questions that focus on management skills and the best architecture software. Here are some commonly asked interview questions for Revit architecture that you might encounter.

Q25. How do you manage large Revit files?

Sample Answer: I try to keep the models organized by using worksets, sheets, and views to manage the model size and control visibility. Moreover, I frequently audit to ensure there are no unused elements. Additionally, by linking models, I am able to separate various disciplines which further helps me to manage the load on a single file. 

Q26. How is Project Browser different from the Properties palette?

Sample Answer: The project browser provides a systematic and hierarchical view of the elements of the project. This helps in organizing families, sheets, and views, enabling users to navigate through the project. On the other hand, the properties palette contains the parameters and settings for the entire project. This can help in changing the project’s coordinate system and adjusting the scale by adjusting settings like visibility, project units, and default graphics. This can help in influencing the project as a whole.

Q27. How is AutoCAD different from Revit?

Sample Answer: The primary difference between AutoCAD and Revit is that AutoCAD is a 2D drafting tool, that can carry out some basic 3D design modeling, while Revit manages all parts of a building project from ideation to execution. Additionally, AutoCAD is a part of the computer-aided design program, whereas Revit comes under the building information modeling program.

Q28. How can you collaborate on a Revit project?

Sample Answer: You can ensure collaboration on a Revit project through worksharing. For example, a file can be set up for multiple users to work on different elements simultaneously. As a supervisor, I can regularly synchronize it with the central model to ensure each member receives the latest updates. Additionally, I have also used BIM 360 and Revit’s collaboration features for cloud based collaboration.

Q29. What is AutoCAD Revit Architecture Suite Software?

Sample Answer: AutoCAD Revit Architecture software is a combination of AutoCAD Architecture 2010, AutoCAD 2010, and Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010 software. Since all the software are compiled into a single package, this helps in transitioning to building information modeling, while protecting legacy software and design data investments. You may work in AutoCAD or AutoCAD Architecture while simultaneously transitioning to BIM with Revit Architecture, with the advantage of having access to three architectural design tools under a single license. 

Q30. How does Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010 help with sustainable design?

Sample Answer: Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010 supports sustainable design through various features. It allows for easy material takeoff to estimate costs and analyze designs against LEED criteria. Sun studies help assess solar effects, while designers can export building data to gbXML for energy analysis. The design options feature enables the development and comparison of multiple designs, helping to visualize and measure real-world performance. Overall, it aids in improving the sustainability of buildings by analyzing materials, energy use, and lighting in a virtual model.

Q31. Do you need to switch to AutoCAD from Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010 for drafting and detailing?

Sample Answer: No, I can work completely on Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010 for construction documentation, without having to switch to AutoCAD. Revit can handle 2D drafting and 3D modeling while offering several benefits such as collaboration features, automatic updates, detailing structures, and integrated drafting tools.

Q32. What file formats does Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010 support?

Sample Answer: Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010 supports a plethora of widely used file formats, such as:

• Image formats: JPG, TGA, PNG, TIF, PAN, BMP, IVR, and AVI.
• CAD formats: DGN, ADSK, DWF™, DXF™, DWG™, IFC, SKP, and SAT.
• Other formats: TXT, ODBC, MDB, XLS, HTML, FBX, and gbXML.

Q33. Are there API Or third-party development tools for Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010?

Sample Answer: This is one of the most popular Revit interview questions. Yes, there is a robust.NET API included with Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010 that allows you to design MEP systems and Revit families programmatically. Microsoft’s Visual Tools for Applications (VSTA), a C# and VB.NET programming environment, is also part of the Revit 2010 platform that allows Autodesk Revit Architecture users to construct document and application macros. 

Q34. What are the features available in Revit that you might not find in CAD?

Sample Answer: Revit is a parametric modeling program, which means models created with it are meant to be easily updated and changed. On the other hand, CAD software is solely used for the creation of static models. A few of the characteristics that make Revit an excellent tool for modeling buildings and other structures is its ability to add measurements and annotations and construct various views on a model. 

Q35. What’s the best way to import a DWG file into Revit?

Sample Answer: Using the Revit Import DWG tool is the most effective approach for importing a DWG file into Revit. You can choose the DWG file you would like to import and it will convert it to the Revit file format.

Q36. What are the different types of views that can be created in Revit?

Sample Answer: Ceiling plans, floor plans, elevations, sections, 3D views, and details are some of the views that can be created in Revit.

Q37. What are the benefits of using 3D models for design?

Sample Answer: There are numerous benefits to designing with 3D models; these include the capacity to produce more accurate and lifelike renderings of the finished product, faster and easier design testing and iteration, and the capacity to produce designs that are easier to comprehend and explain to others. By helping designers identify possible issues early in the design phase, the use of 3D models can also help to lower a project’s overall cost.

Q38. How can levels be used for improving workflow?

Sample Answer: Revit’s levels feature can help in depicting several floors or heights in a building model. They can also enhance productivity by aiding in model organization and monitoring various elements at various levels.

Q39. How do you ensure the accuracy of your models?

Sample Answer: I make sure the model is accurate by frequently comparing dimensions to the project specifications and using programs like Navisworks to do collision detection. At different project stages, I also routinely evaluate the model with team members and stakeholders, to take their feedback to address problems early. 

Q40. How can you add dimensions and annotations be added to an architectural model?

Sample Answer: By selecting the relevant tools under the Annotate tab in Revit, you can add dimensions and notes to an architectural model. Additionally, the Dimension tool can be used to add dimensions, while the Text tool can be used to add annotations.

Conclusion

As the demand for Revit architects increases, it’s important to show that you really understand the software. This not only highlights your skills but also shows your adaptability, which can boost your chances of getting a job. Whether you’re just starting your career or aiming for a promotion, these top 40 interview questions on Revit architecture can help candidates at any level prepare effectively.

Also, if you’re preparing for an architecture interview, be sure to check out these AutoCAD interview questions and answers for a deeper understanding.