What should be the focus when estimating for a project?

Focusing on calculating time and material costs is essential when estimating for a project because it captures the comprehensive financial aspects needed to successfully complete the work. Labor, materials, and associated costs all play critical roles in ensuring that the project remains on budget and is completed efficiently. By assessing time, you can better gauge labor costs, while material costs often fluctuate based on what is needed to accomplish the project's goals. This approach ensures that no significant cost factors are overlooked, which can lead to budget overruns and project delays.

While understanding the project scope is also vital, it's more about defining the work to be done rather than quantifying the financial aspects. Labor costs and tool costs, when considered independently, do not provide a holistic view of the actual expenses involved in a project. Therefore, an accurate estimate requires a complete analysis that includes both time and material, making it crucial for effective project management and planning.