Book Description
If youre just learning AutoCAD, this friendly, For Dummies guide is perfect for you. Youll get up to speed on all the basics and start creating 2D and 3D technical drawings sooner than you might imagine. Learn how to create a basic drawing, use AutoCAD Design Center, edit your drawings, work with dimensions, add text, and much more. The book is straightforward, easy to follow, and includes practical tips and notes that demystify this complex software even further.

. Gets you quickly up to speed on AutoCAD X, the leading technical drawing software from Autodesk
. Covers how to create a basic drawing, use AutoCAD Design Center, edit your drawings, use blocks, work with dimensions, add text, and draw on the Internet
. Includes updates on the latest features in AutoCAD X focusing on those that matter most to beginners
. Uses the popular For Dummies approach, which breaks down this intimidating topic into helpful, practical advice and howtos for real people

AutoCAD X For Dummies is what you need to get up to speed and start designing with this marketleading software!

From the Back Cover
If youre new to AutoCAD 2011 or just a little rusty, this book will start the wheels turning and keep you rolling in the right direction. It includes practical advice, proven methods, and insider tips to get you up and running quickly. Youll be setting up the AutoCAD environment to create complex technical drawings and realistic 3D models in no time!

. Learn your way around explore AutoCAD 2011 features as you set up a new drawing
. Slow and steady understand how the intense detail in setting up a drawing pays off as your work continues
. Its all about the geometry discover how to draw objects, edit them, and zoom and pan to see them better
. Add the essentials incorporate text, dimensioning, and hatching to make it easier to build your amazing creation
. Get more advanced design symbols with changeable text or appearance and apply parametric rules to drawing objects
. Play well with others explore all the features that enable you to share drawings and data
. Go on a 3D spree take a trip into the 3D environment as you model in different ways and create spectacular results

Open the book and find:

. Methods for setting up a layout in paper space
. How to manage your properties and control your precision
. Techniques for using your AutoCAD toolkit
. Tips for drawing and editing dimensions
. How to push the Hatch boundary
. 16 steps to follow for plotting success
. Ways to create static and dynamic blocks
. Secrets to 2D and 3D drawing

Learn to:

. Develop basic layouts for technical drawings
. Use blocks, add text, and edit drawings
. Explore 3D models and create your own impressive 3D designs
. Create realistic renderings