A metal framing layout square of substantially flat unitary construction and a method for using the same is provided. The square preferably includes an elongated blade, an elongated slot defined in the blade and parallel to the edges of the blade to provide two additional edges for the marking of measurement scales. The tool provides a tongue joined at a right angle to the blade. The metal framing layout square is preferably used with the layout phase of interior metal framed walls, and is directed to a metal framing layout square for use in constructing compound metal framing systems comprising a plurality of predetermined lengths and widths, and has slots which are to allow a user to readily mark a series of layout marks from a starting point to efficiently complete a set of markings for an entire framing structure with minimal need for secondary measuring devices.