One thing that I was taught when first learning wall layout was to fill in the 1 1/2-inch indent on my layout square with liquid correction fluid (like Wite Out). I do this on my Swanson Speed Square, but it can be done on just about any brand of layout square. The white stands out, so with a quick glance, I can easily locate and align the square with marks when I’m laying out wall plates.

I now teach carpentry and require all my students to do this on their layout squares. When teaching layout, we have students draw all sides of every framed wall component. While veteran framers might scoff at the idea of marking both sides of every framing component, we find that the extra effort is helpful for new carpenters and gives students more practice drawing the layout. Using the “Wite Out” trick helps tremendously in this process.

Students who are learning the trade need repetition and practice. Having them thoroughly lay out wall plates also gives them the visual guidance they need when learning to assemble components of a framed wall correctly. And, since we are in an educational setting, doing things correctly is more important than doing things fast.