AutoCAD 2011 For Dummies

Design with precision, explore your ideas in 3D, and create spectacular drawings If you're 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. You'll 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 It's 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