How to Use Reference Plane in Revit: A Beginner’s Guide

Learn how to use Revit’s Reference Plane tool for precise modelling and smart family creation

Why Reference Planes Matter in Revit?

In Revit, reference planes are more than just temporary lines—they are essential tools for creating accurate and parametric models. Whether you're creating custom families or aligning model elements, reference planes help you control geometry with precision.

What Is a Reference Plane in Revit?

A Reference Plane is a foundational guide used in Revit family creation to define and control geometry through dimensions. Think of it as an invisible framework that drives parametric behaviour and ensures your family responds intelligently to size changes.

• They do not print or appear in your final drawings

• Commonly used in both modelling environment and family editor

• Can be named and locked for better control

Where to Find the Reference Plane Tool

You can find the Reference Plane tool in two main contexts:

• Project Environment

  • Architecture tab > Work Plane Panel > Reference Plane

• Family Editor:

  • Create tab > Datum Panel > Reference Plane

How to Use Reference Planes Step-by-Step

1. Draw a Reference Plane

• Go to the appropriate view (e.g., Floor Plan or Elevation)

• Click the Reference Plane tool

• Draw a line where you want the reference to be

2. Name the Plane (Optional but Recommended)

• Select the reference plane

• In the Properties panel, give it a meaningful name like “Left of Window” or “Right of Window”

3. Align and Lock Elements

Use the Align (AL) tool to:

• Align model elements (like walls, doors) to the reference plane

• Lock the alignment to maintain constraints when editing

4. Set Work Plane

To draw or place elements on a reference plane:

• Go to Set Work Plane (Architecture/Create > Work Plane)

• Choose the named reference plane as your drawing surface

Best Practices for Using Reference Planes

✅ Use reference planes to constraint dimensions, not geometry

✅ Always name critical planes, for instance, the setback

✅ Control family behaviour with locked alignments

✅ Keep reference planes visible but organized. It will be good to have sub-categories to organise clearly.

✅ Don’t overuse reference lines unless needed

Common Use Cases

• Creating parametric Revit families

• Defining origin of Revit families

• Controlling rotation or mirror behaviour in families

• Aligning multiple components across different views

Conclusion

Mastering reference planes in Revit is key to creating robust parametric families and maintaining critical dimensions in your drawings. When used properly, they provide the framework for flexible, adaptable models that behave intelligently.