Download the blank template or a filled example
The workbook includes Summary, Raw counts and Instructions sheets. It supports up to 2,000 object rows and displays the first 200 drawing/page/code groups. A visible capacity check warns if the group limit is exceeded. It contains formulas and validation lists, with no macros or external data connections.
The filled example uses illustrative records, including one item that still needs review. It is not a customer takeoff or a bid-ready estimate. Quantities are individual objects measured in EA; this template does not calculate cable or conduit lengths.
Import a symbol-count CSV
- Save a copy of the blank workbook for the project and revision you are reviewing.
- Open your Metruno symbol-count CSV in Excel. Keep its 16 original columns in order, from Drawing through Object ID.
- Copy the data rows without the CSV header. On Raw counts, paste values only into A6:P2005. Keep the formula columns Q and R intact.
- Open Summary. Check the record status and capacity messages before using any total. Review the grouped new, existing and removal quantities separately.
- Resolve flagged records against the drawing or replace them with a corrected export. Keep a fresh workbook for each drawing revision rather than mixing old and new exports.
Do not paste more than 2,000 records into this file. Split larger takeoffs into separate workbooks with distinct drawing or sheet scopes. The Instructions sheet also explains how to enter manual object rows and how to retain source references.
Keep the evidence behind each count
| Columns | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Drawing, Page | Identify the source PDF and its original page number. |
| Code, Description | Keep different fixture or device types separate. |
| Scope, Quantity, Unit | Separate new, existing, removal and excluded objects. Included objects are 1 EA; excluded objects are 0 EA. |
| Review, Priceable | Retain review status and the export’s pricing eligibility flag. The workbook does not authorize an estimate. |
| Capture, X, Y, Width, Height | Retain how the object was captured and its drawing location. CSV locations use normalized drawing coordinates. |
| Quantity ID, Object ID | Retain source identifiers so repeated imports can be detected. |
| Record status, Group row | Formula columns used for validation and summary grouping. Do not overwrite them. |
Use the checks before using the totals
The summary counts only records with a valid reviewed status. Duplicate object IDs within the same drawing are flagged, and all copies are withheld from reviewed totals until you resolve them. Missing required fields, invalid scope, inconsistent quantities and records that need review are also flagged.
Excluded objects are counted as records, with zero quantity. Existing items have a separate quantity column and stay outside pricing. A clean status means the spreadsheet’s record checks passed; it does not mean someone has checked the drawing for missed symbols, repeated layouts, wrong type labels or complete scope.
Only the first 200 groups are displayed. If the group-capacity warning appears, split the input into smaller, distinct scopes before relying on the grouped table. Summary headline totals still describe the imported rows, so they can differ from the visible group table when that limit is exceeded.
Keep quantities separate from a priced estimate
This template is for counts and review, not pricing. It has no material cost database or labor-rate assumptions. When you are ready to price, use reviewed eligible quantities and your own rates, then account for the rest of the project scope.
See the worked electrical estimate for materials, labor, overhead and markup, or try the public symbol-count sample before uploading your own plan.