AutoCAD Beginner Series

Introduction

• This is a three-part video series aimed at beginners with no prior knowledge of AutoCAD.
• The series covers:
  • User interface
  • Setting units
  • Working with commands
  • Basic drawings using draw and modify tools
  • Precise drawings with object snaps
  • Drawing management tools (layers, blocks)
  • Making dimensions
  • Printing drawings

Part 1: User Interface and Basic Drawing

Starting AutoCAD

• AutoCAD has two main versions:
  • Autodesk AutoCAD 2020 (full version)
  • Autodesk AutoCAD LT (lighter version with limited features)
• User interface may vary slightly between Windows and Mac but functions remain similar.

Starting a New Drawing

• Select the "Start Drawing" box to begin.

User Interface Components

• Application Button: Access frequently used tools.
• Quick Access Toolbar: A similar toolset to the Application Button.
• Tabs and Ribbon Area: Comprises various tabs (Home, Insert, Annotate) containing panels and tools.
• Command Line: Allows command input directly.
• Status Bar Toggles: Tools to assist in making precise drawings.

Basic Drawing Tools

1. Line Tool: Click to start drawing.
   • First point: Click at a location.
   • Subsequent points: Click again to define the line.
   • Press "Enter" to finish.
2. Navigation Tools:
   • Use the middle mouse wheel to pan and zoom.
   • Select objects by clicking; deselect with the "Escape" key.
3. Selection Methods:
   • Window Selection: Selects objects entirely within a solid rectangle.
   • Crossing Window: Selects objects that touch the boundary of a dashed rectangle.
   • Lasso Selection: Selects objects using a freeform area drawn around them.

Setting Units

• To set units, use the command UN:
  • Change the unit type (e.g., millimeters to inches).
  • Select length type (e.g., Decimal vs. Architectural).

Drawing Examples

• Use L (Line Command) to create lines of specific lengths.
• Angle Specification: Add angle values when drawing lines.
• Polar Tracking: Set angles for drawing (e.g., 30 degrees).
• Dynamic Input: Use F12 to toggle dynamic input for length and angle.

Commands and Drawing Techniques

• Type in lengths directly after initiating a command.
• Use angle brackets for angle input (e.g., 30 for 30 degrees).
• Maintain precision with tools like Polar Tracking and Dynamic Input.

Conclusion

• The first part covered the basics of making drawings in AutoCAD.
• Next, further drawing and modification tools will be introduced in the upcoming videos.