In terms of measuring dimension, which view is primarily used to calculate the footprint of the building?

The plan view is the correct choice for calculating the footprint of a building because it provides a horizontal view straight down onto the structure, showing the layout and dimensions of the building's base. This perspective allows for the accurate measurement of the area that the building covers on the ground, making it essential for establishing the footprint.

In contrast, the elevation view presents the vertical aspects of the building, showcasing facades and heights, which do not assist in determining the footprint. The detail view focuses on specific components or features, providing intricate information but lacking the overall layout necessary for footprint calculation. The section view illustrates a cut-through of the building, revealing internal configurations and relationships between different levels but is not used for calculating the footprint as it does not depict the horizontal layout of the base.