About Keynotes

A keynote parameter is available for all model elements (including detail components) and materials. You can tag each of these elements using a keynote tag family. The keynote value is derived from a separate text file that contains a list of keynotes.

If an element already contains a value for a keynote, it displays in a tag automatically. If not, you can select the keynote value directly. Revit LT provides 2 sample text files for keynoting.

Keynotes assigned in a project are linked to their source keynote table. When the keynote table is changed, keynotes in the project will reflect the changes when the project is closed and reopened.

The default keynoting data provided in Revit LT is based on the 1995 Construction Specification Institute (CSI) Master format system, which uses 16 divisions to organize construction process and materials. This system is widely used in the United States. A more recent version of this system is based upon 50 divisions and was introduced in 2004. Revit LT supports both versions of the CSI system.

This system is most effective when objects that are used throughout a project are already assigned their respective keynote values. When these values are not supplied, you can assign a value as you place a keynote tag. Materials, system and component families, and detail components can have keynote parameters entered in advance.

Video: Place and Edit Element Keynotes

Keynote placement tips

Note: Instead of or in addition to using keynotes, you may want to use note blocks to add annotation to your model. For more information, see About Annotation Schedules (Note Blocks).