There are two types of structural drawings.

Full structural drawings are typically 24-by-36-inch CAD-generated drawings on full-size sheets that include framing plans, foundation plans, sections, and other details. These are very detailed, thorough structural drawings intended for construction and are typically used for new construction projects.

They are also used for pulling permits and serve as the contractor's or builder's primary plans for constructing additions, performing renovations, or building an entire new house. They show the contractor or builder exactly what framing to use, where to use it, how to connect it, and other necessary structural details.

Sketches, which are sometimes confused with full structural drawings, are smaller, typically single-page 8.5-by-11-inch drawings. They usually show a section or two of repairs recommended in an engineer's letter and are meant to supplement the letter by providing additional repair detailing.

Sketches are generally not enough on their own for new construction projects such as an addition or a new house.