How is a half-scale drawing typically written?

A half-scale drawing is represented by a ratio of 1:2. This means that for every unit of measurement on the drawing (for example, one inch or one centimeter), the actual object will be twice that measurement in reality. Therefore, if a half-scale drawing shows a length of 1 inch, the real-world object would actually be 2 inches long. This scale is particularly useful in architectural and engineering drawings where it provides a clear visual representation of an object, making it easier to convey details while still allowing the drawing to be manageable in size.

The other options suggest different scaling methods. For instance, a ratio of 1:5 would indicate that the drawing is one-fifth the size of the actual object, which is not representative of half-scale. Similarly, 2:1 would imply that the drawing is twice as large as the object, representing a scale of enlargement rather than reduction. A ratio of 1:10 indicates that the drawing is one-tenth the size of the actual object, which is also not half-scale. Each of these options addresses different scaling needs but does not correspond to the definition of a half-scale drawing like the 1:2 ratio does.