Up and Running with AutoCAD 2014: 2D and 3D Drawing and Modeling

Get “Up and Running” with AutoCAD using Gindis’s combination of step-by-step instruction, examples, and insightful explanations. The emphasis from the beginning is on core concepts and practical application of AutoCAD in architecture, engineering and design. Equally useful in instructor-led classroom training, self-study, or as a professional reference, the book is written with the user in mind by a long-time AutoCAD professional and instructor based on what works in the industry and the classroom.

• Strips away complexities, both real and perceived, and reduces AutoCAD to easy-to-understand basic concepts
• Teaches only what is essential to operating AutoCAD first, thereby immediately building student confidence
• All basic commands are documented step-by-step; what the student needs to type in and how AutoCAD responds is spelled out in discrete and clear steps with screen shots added as needed

New to this edition:

• New and improved features include better integration with the AutoCAD certification exams, new Spotlight On sections, an expanded appendix, and more content on programming
• 3D portion of the book has been expanded and improved, with new exercises, new features and a redone section on rendering
• All discussions and screen shots have been updated for the current release of AutoCAD

Table of Contents

CHAPTER 1. AutoCAD Fundamentals: Part I
CHAPTER 2. AutoCAD Fundamentals: Part II
CHAPTER 3. Layers, Colors, Linetypes, and Properties
CHAPTER 4. Text, Mtext, Editing, and Style
CHAPTER 5. Hatch Patterns
CHAPTER 6. Dimensions
CHAPTER 7. Blocks, Wblocks, Dynamic Blocks, Groups, and Purge
CHAPTER 8. Polar, Rectangular, and Path Arrays
CHAPTER 9. Basic Printing and Output
CHAPTER 10. Advanced Output. Paper Space
CHAPTER 11. Advanced Linework
CHAPTER 12. Advanced Layers
CHAPTER 13. Advanced Dimensions
CHAPTER 14. Options, Shortcuts, CUI, Design Center, and Express Tools
CHAPTER 15. Advanced Design and File Management Tools
CHAPTER 16. Importing and Exporting Data
CHAPTER 17. External References (Xrefs)
CHAPTER 18. Attributes
CHAPTER 19. Advanced Output and Pen Settings
CHAPTER 20. Isometric Drawing
CHAPTER 21. 3D Basics
CHAPTER 22. Object Manipulation
CHAPTER 23 – Boolean Operations and Primitives
CHAPTER 24. Solid Modeling
CHAPTER 25. Advanced Solids, Faces, and Edges
CHAPTER 26. Surfaces and Meshes
CHAPTER 27 – Slicing, Sectioning, Layouts and Vports
CHAPTER 28. Advanced UCS, Views, Text and Dimensions in 3D
CHAPTER 29. Dview, Cameras, Walk and Fly, Path Animation
CHAPTER 30. Lighting and Rendering

APPENDIX A. Additional Information on AutoCAD
APPENDIX B. Other CAD Software and Design and Analysis
APPENDIX C. File Extensions
APPENDIX D. Custom Linetypes and Hatch Patterns
APPENDIX E. Principles of CAD Management
APPENDIX F. AutoLISP Basics and Advanced Customization Tools
APPENDIX G. PC Hardware, Printers and Plotters, and Networks
APPENDIX H. What Are Kernels?
APPENDIX I. Lighting, Rendering, Effects, and Animation
APPENDIX J. AutoCAD Certification Exams
APPENDIX K. AutoCAD Employment
APPENDIX L. AutoCAD Humor, Oddities, Quirks, and Easter Eggs