A good markup clearly communicates the issue, its exact location, and what action is needed. A poor markup leaves recipients confused and generates back-and-forth questions. Here's how to create markups that get results.

Step 1: Choose the Right Tools

Use PDF markup software with construction features:

Bluebeam Revu

Industry standard, excellent collaboration features

Adobe Acrobat Pro

Widely available, good basic markup

PDF-XChange

Good Windows alternative, lower cost

Procore Drawings

Integrated with project management

Step 2: Establish a Color Code

Consistent colors help recipients quickly understand markup types:

Red

Problems, conflicts, errors that need correction

Yellow

Questions, clarifications needed

Green

Approved, acceptable, verified OK

Blue

Information, notes, references

Orange

Warnings, items to verify in field

Step 3: Use Clear Markup Symbols

Choose the right markup tool for each situation:

Cloud

Circle areas of concern. This is the most common markup.

Arrow/Callout

Point to specific elements with text explanation

Highlight

Draw attention to text or dimensions

Strikethrough

Indicate items to be removed or revised

Polyline

Show routing conflicts or suggested alternatives

Measurement

Verify dimensions or show clearance issues

Step 4: Write Clear Comments

Every markup should include a text comment explaining the issue:

Unclear

• "Check this"

• "???"

• "Doesn't work"

• "Fix"

Clear

• "24x12 duct at EL 10'-6" conflicts with W16x40 beam at EL 10'-4""

• "Door 104 shown as 3'-0" on plan but 2'-8" in schedule"

• "Verify 18" clearance for valve access"

Step 5: Include Reference Information

Make it easy to find related information:

Reference other sheets where conflicts originate (e.g., "See S-201 for beam elevations")

Note RFI numbers if the issue is already under discussion

Reference specification sections for material questions

Include your initials and date on markups

Number markups if there are many on one sheet

Step 6: Organize for Distribution

Structure your markups for easy review:

Use layers to separate markups by discipline or reviewer

Group related markups together when possible

Create a markup summary in a cover sheet if there are many issues

Export markup summaries to Excel for tracking

Flatten only when sending final versions (keep working copies editable)

Step 7: Track Resolution

Don't let markups disappear into the void:

Maintain a log of all markups sent

Request confirmation of receipt

Review revised drawings against your original markups

Note which issues were addressed and which remain open

Follow up on unresolved items

Get AI-Generated Markups

Articulate can automatically identify coordination issues and generate markups with precise locations, saving hours of manual review time while making sure nothing gets missed.

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How to Mark Up PDF Drawings for Coordination