The specifications are broadly divided as two types:

a) General specifications

b) Detailed specifications

a) General specifications: In general specification, nature and class of works and names of materials that should be used are described. Only, a brief description of that every item is given. It is useful for estimating the project. The general specification do not form a part of the contract document.

b) Detailed specifications : The detailed specifications form a apart of the contract documents. They specify the qualities, quantities and proportions of materials and the method of preparation and execution for a particular items of works in a project. The detailed specifications of the different items of the work are prepared separately and they describe what the work should be and how they shall be executed and constructed. While writing the detailed specifications the same order of sequence as the work is to be carried out is maintained.