When I started as a first-year arki student in a state university in the Philippines, I had no idea what tools I needed before classes began. With no relatives or friends in the same course, I had no one to ask for advice, and social media wasn’t as accessible back then.

If you’re here, you’re probably wondering what essentials you should prepare before starting architecture school. Based on my personal experience, I’ve compiled a list of must-have tools that will help you survive your first year.

1. Mechanical Pencil

Your most important tool as an architecture student. You’ll use it constantly for sketching and drafting. I’ve had only one mechanical pencil since I started—a Faber-Castell—and it became one of my trademarks.

2. Graphite Pencils

You’ll need these for shading and practice drawings. Many of your activity plates will require different grades of graphite pencils. I already had some when I started, so I didn’t buy new ones. My go-to brand is Staedtler, but there are plenty of affordable options out there.

3. Compass

A must-have for your first year. You’ll be drawing a lot of circles, and a high-quality compass makes a big difference. Even a small mistake on your plate can be a hassle, so it’s worth investing in a good one from a bookstore.

4. Triangles & Protractors

You’ll need three sizes of triangles—small, medium, and large. I suggest buying a large 90-degree triangle, as it’s the most useful with your T-square. Protractors are primarily used in your first year but still come in handy later.

5. Scale Ruler

Don’t forget this! I once had to use a scale calculator app because I didn’t have a scale ruler, and it made things way harder. Now, I have two: a reduction scale ruler from Staedtler and a fan scale ruler from an online shop.

6. Ruler

This can be an alternative to a T-square if you’re looking for a more portable option. I had three sizes: 6-inch, 12-inch, and 20-inch. Since I commuted two hours to school daily, carrying both a T-square and a canister was a hassle. A 20-inch ruler fits in my canister along with my 20×30 papers, making it more convenient.

7. T-Square

I only used a wooden T-square throughout my architecture journey. It was sturdy and effective, though it needed extra care to prevent warping. If you commute, wrapping it in a cloth or using a T-square bag can help protect it. Some of my classmates preferred acrylic or aluminum T-squares, but I stuck with wood because it felt more comfortable to use.

8. Canister

A must-have for protecting your plates and keeping them from getting crumpled. I only used one canister—the blue tube from Staedtler—throughout my studies. However, I highly recommend getting a T-square bag with a canister pocket for easier carrying.

9. Masking Tape

Used to attach plates to your drafting board or secure drawings while you work. Get a good-quality one that won’t tear your paper when removed. I always kept an extra roll in my bag.

10. Markers

Essential for plate titles and borders. A bold black marker helps create clear, professional-looking labels. I used Sharpie markers because they don’t smudge easily. Fine-tip markers are also useful for smaller details.

11. Technical Pens

Used for precise line work. Investing in technical pens like Rotring or Staedtler is a good idea. They come in different nib sizes (e.g., 0.1, 0.3, 0.5), which are crucial for line weight variation in drafting. I started with a set of three and added more as I progressed.

12. Fine Liners

These are similar to technical pens but more affordable and disposable. I used them for quick sketches and tracing, especially when I didn’t want to risk damaging my technical pens. My go-to brands were Uni Pin and Sakura Pigma Micron.

13. Eraser

A soft eraser is essential to avoid damaging your paper. I always had a kneaded eraser for soft shading corrections and a regular white eraser for stronger erasures. The Stabilo supreme eraser was my go-to.

14. Sketchpad

A sketchpad is useful for freehand drawing practice and quick concept sketches. I preferred a medium-texture sketchpad since it worked well with both graphite and ink. A pocket-sized sketchpad was also handy for sketching ideas during commutes.

15. Graphing Paper

This helped me make proportionate sketches and scale drawings neatly. I didn’t use it daily, but having some sheets on hand saved me time when working on preliminary designs.

Starting architecture school can feel overwhelming, but having the right tools makes a big difference. These essentials helped me survive my first year, and I hope they help you too!

If you’re about to begin your architecture journey, embrace the process, stay patient, and always keep sketching!