Shop drawings are detailed technical drawings prepared by contractors, manufacturers, or fabricators showing how specific building components will be constructed, assembled, and installed. Unlike architectural drawings that show design intent, shop drawings show exact dimensions, materials, connections, and fabrication details for items like structural steel, mechanical systems, curtain walls, or millwork. Architects and engineers review shop drawings to verify they match design specifications before fabrication begins. Shop drawing review is a critical quality control step in construction, catching potential conflicts or errors before expensive materials are manufactured. Approved shop drawings become part of the construction record documenting what was actually built.