What is the difference between Stud and Plate families?
Introduction
After loading default Metal Framing families (Settings > Load Families > Main Families), you'll find a variety of families:

Many of the families are named as "Stud", "Plate", "Track", "Stud-Joist" or with another title. Each family belongs to one of the three framing systems and serves a unique purpose:
C+U
C+C_CH
C+C
Note: do not mix the families from different framing systems in the Framing Configurations.
For example, MF C+C_CH Stud must not be used with MF C+C Plate or MF Track.
C+C_CH
C+C_CH families are designed for Arkitech, Howick and Pinnacle frames. Read more.
MF C+C_CH Stud
MF C+C_CH Stud is used for all vertical elements:
Common Studs
Start/End Studs
King studs, Cripples (including diagonal)

Note: C+C and C+C_CH stud families are designed for different framing systems. Learn more
MF C+C_CH Plate
MF C+C_CH Plate is used for all horizontal elements (except service holes and strap bracing):
Top/Bottom plates
Headers
Sills
Blocking/Nogging

Note: C+C and C+C_CH plate families are designed for different framing systems. Learn more
C+U
C+U families are designed for:
Internal, non-prefab stud partitions
Knudson, Metroll and Scottsdale prefab frames
MF Stud-Joist
MF Stud-Joist family should only be used for vertical elements:

MF Blocking Stud-Joist
MF Blocking Stud-Joist is used only for Blocking/Nogging:

MF Lateral Brace
MF Lateral Brace family is used only for Blocking/Nogging:

MF Track
MF Track should only be used for horizontal elements:
Top/Bottom Plate
Sill
Header

C+C
MF C+C Stud
MF C+C Stud is used for all vertical elements:
Common Studs
Start/End Studs
King studs, Cripples (including diagonal)
Note: C+C and C+C_CH stud families are designed for different framing systems. Learn more

MF C+C Plate
MF C+C Plate is used for all horizontal elements (except service holes and strap bracing):
Top/Bottom plates
Headers
Sills
Blocking/Nogging

Note: C+C and C+C_CH plate families are designed for different framing systems. Learn more
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