Construction Estimating Software-- Glossary C to F

Estimating Glossary

NOTE-- In 2000 we completely replaced MacNail with the newer Goldenseal construction estimating software. There are still die-hard MacNail users, so we keep the manuals online for their use! Goldenseal is an integrated program that also includes accounting, job costing and contract writing features. There are answers to many Goldenseal questions on our website.

Estimating Glossary C to F

Criteria: Two rows at the bottom of the worksheet that contain the same words as the heading for the database and blank cells. The blank cells are used to type search criteria for an extraction.

Database: The area of the worksheet within which the extraction searches.

Desk Accessory: A handy 'mini-program' under the apple menu.

Desktop: What you see when you first start the computer.

Dialog box: A small window that allows you to enter information or redirect the program in progress.

Dimensions: See job dimensions.

Document: Synonym for file.

Drag: Click with the mouse on the object to be dragged. Hold the mouse button down while moving the mouse. The object will move, following the mouse pointer.

Double-click: Click the mouse button twice in succession, fairly quickly.

Enter Key: Located on the number pad, use to enter numbers or formulas into a cell without changing the active cell. On a protected document it will move you to the next unprotected cell.

Estimator: A specialized Excel worksheet used as a blank form to create new Estimates in the MacNail construction estimating software.

Estimate: A specialized Excel worksheet already assigned to a particular job, used to get a final bid price.

Extracter: A row on the worksheet that contains the same words as the headings for the database. Extractions are displayed below the extracter.

Extracting: An Excel feature that lets you get a list of items that match a particular set of conditions.

File: Usually refers to a document in its electronic form. It is represented by an icon on your desktop. Can refer to applications or any electronic entity other than a folder on your desktop.