Beginner Guide to AutoCAD

Aug 22, 2024

AutoCAD Beginner Series - Part 1 Notes

Introduction

  • This tutorial series is for complete beginners in AutoCAD.
  • Topics covered include:
    • User interface
    • Setting units
    • Basic drawing commands
    • Object snaps
    • Layer management
    • Blocks
    • Dimensions
    • Printing drawings

AutoCAD Versions

  • Two versions of AutoCAD:
    • Autodesk AutoCAD 2020 (full version)
    • Autodesk AutoCAD LT (lighter version with limited features)
  • User interface is similar in both versions, but advanced features like 3D tools are not available in LT.
  • Windows and Mac versions have different interfaces but functionally are the same.

Starting a New Drawing

  • To start a new drawing, select the "Start Drawing" box on the start screen.

User Interface Components

  1. Application Button (top left) - Contains frequently used tools.
  2. Quick Access Toolbar - Similar tools to the application button.
  3. Tabs and Ribbon Area - Contains tabs like Home, Insert, Annotate, and their respective panels with tools and commands.
  4. Drawing Area - The area where drawings are made.
  5. Command Line / Command Palette - Displays command input and prompts.
  6. Status Bar Toggles - Helps in making precise drawings.

Drawing Basics

Line Tool

  • To activate the Line tool:
    • Click on the Line icon or type L and press Enter.
  • Points are specified by clicking in the drawing area.
  • Press Enter to exit the line command.

Navigation Tools

  • Middle Mouse Wheel:
    • Hold to move the drawing (changes cursor to hand icon).
    • Rotate to zoom in/out (zooming toward cursor position).
  • Selection
    • Click to select objects.
    • Press Esc to deselect.
    • Use window selection and crossing window for multiple selections.

Units Settings

  • To set units, type UN and press Enter.
    • Options include millimeters, inches, unitless, decimal, architectural, etc.
  • For example, selecting architectural allows input in feet and inches.

Drawing First Shapes

Using the Line Tool

  • Start by selecting the Line command:
    • Specify the first point, move the cursor, and enter length.
    • You can specify lengths and angles (e.g., 30<50 for an angle).

Polar Tracking

  • Allows drawing at specified angles (set to multiples of desired angle).
  • Activate by clicking the status bar option; angle tracking will show.

Dynamic Input

  • Activates by pressing F12.
    • Provides tooltips for length and angle when drawing.
  • Input lengths and angles using the keyboard for precision.

Summary

  • The tutorial covers fundamental AutoCAD commands and settings.
  • In the next video, additional drawing and modification tools will be introduced.