One of the most flexible software programmes for engineering and building designs is AutoCAD, along with AutoCAD , which is the most widely used computer-aided design (CAD) platform for 2D drafting and 3D modelling. From a basic overview of the user interface to using advanced tools, this practical guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get the most out of this potent tool.

starting with basic drawing shapes and functions, you'll get to grips with the fundamentals of CAD designs. You'll then learn about effective drawing management using layers, dynamic blocks, and groups and discover how to add annotations and plot like professionals. The book delves into 3D modeling and helps you convert your 2D drawings into 3D models and shapes. As you progress, you'll cover advanced tools and features such as isometric drawings, drawing utilities for managing and recovering complex files, quantity surveying, and multidisciplinary drawing files using xRefs, and you'll learn how to implement them with the help of practical exercises at the end of each chapter. Finally, you'll get to grips with rendering and visualizing your designs in AutoCAD.

By the end of the book, you'll have developed a solid understanding of CAD principles and be able to work with AutoCAD software confidently to build impressive 2D and 3D drawings.

What you will learn

• Understand CAD fundamentals using AutoCAD's basic functions, navigation, and components


• Create complex 3d solid objects starting from the primitive shapes using the solid editing tools


• Working with reusable objects like Blocks and collaborating using xRef


• Explore some advanced features like external references and dynamic block


• Get to grips with surface and mesh modeling tools such as Fillet, Trim, and Extend


• Use the paper space layout in AutoCAD for creating professional plots for 2D and 3D models


• Convert your 2D drawings into 3D models

A Beginner's Guide to 3D Modeling is certain to show you how to turn your ideas into professional models. Go ahead—dust off that 3D printer and feed it your amazing designs.