AutoCAD Beginner Series Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Three-part video series for complete beginners in AutoCAD.
• Topics covered include:
  • User interface
  • Setting units
  • Working with commands
  • Basic drawings
  • Object snaps
  • Drawing management tools (layers)
  • Blocks (symbols in AutoCAD)
  • Dimensions
  • Printing drawings

Part 1: User Interface

• Versions of AutoCAD:
  • Complete Version: Autodesk AutoCAD 2020 (used in this tutorial).
  • LT Version: Lighter version with limited features (no 3D tools or sheet sets).
• User Interface Differences:
  • Windows vs. Mac: Similar functionality but different layout.
• Starting a New Drawing:
  • Click "Start Drawing" on the start screen.

Interface Components

• Application Button: Top left corner with frequently used tools.
• Quick Access Toolbar: Similar tools to the application button.
• Tabs and Ribbon Area:
  • Tabs include Home, Insert, Annotate, Parametric, etc.
  • Panels contain tools and commands.
• Drawing Area: Where all drawings are made.
• Command Line/Palette: Input for commands.
• Status Bar Toggles: Help in making precise drawings.

First Drawing Steps

• Creating a Line:
  • Select the line tool.
  • Cursor changes to point selection cursor.
  • Click to specify first point; subsequent clicks for additional points.
  • Press Enter to exit the line command.

Navigation Tools

• Panning: Hold middle mouse wheel to drag drawing.
• Zooming: Rotate middle mouse wheel to zoom in/out.
• Selection:
  • Click to select objects.
  • Press Esc to deselect.
  • Use selection windows (solid and dashed) for multiple selections.
• Lasso Selection: Hold left-click and move mouse to create a lasso selection.

Setting Units

• Changing Units: Type UN in command line to access units window.
  • Options include millimeters, inches, unitless, etc.
  • Choose decimal or architectural length types.

Using the Line Tool

• Type L or select the line command to start.
• Follow the prompts to specify points and lengths:
  • Input length directly after clicking the first point.
  • Specify angles using angle sign on keyboard (Shift + key next to M).
• Polar Tracking:
  • Set to specific angle intervals (e.g., 30, 60, 90 degrees).
• Dynamic Input:
  • Activate with F12 for tooltips showing length and angle.

Exiting Commands

• Press Enter to finish drawing a line or exit commands.

Conclusion

• Covered basic drawing in AutoCAD using line tool and setting up the environment.
• Next video will cover additional drawing and modify tools.