Up and Running with AutoCAD 2011 - 2D Drawing and Modeling

Up and Running with AutoCAD 2011: 2D Drawing and Modeling provides an introduction to the fundamental concepts of AutoCAD. These concepts have been distilled down to basic, easy to understand explanations for the benefit of beginner students. Each chapter explains the new concept or command and why it is important. Readers are given the chance to apply just-learned knowledge to a real-life exercise, drawing, or model. They can also test their knowledge with end-of-chapter quizzes and drawing exercises.
The book is organized into two parts: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 offers a wide breadth of knowledge on many topics. Its 10 chapters comprise the complete essential knowledge set of an intermediate user. Students can then work on, if not necessarily set up and manage, moderate to complex drawings. Level 2 is meant for advanced users who are CAD managers, full-time AutoCAD draftspersons, architects, or self-employed and must do everything themselves. The goal here is depth, and several features not deemed critically important in Level 1 are revisited to explore additional advanced options. Also introduced are advanced topics necessary to set up and manage complex drawings.

• Strips away complexities, both real and perceived and reduces AutoCAD to easy-to-understand basic concepts.
• Explains 'why' something is done, not just 'how': the theory behind each concept or command is discussed prior to engaging AutoCAD,  so the student has a clear idea of what they are attempting to do.
• All basic commands are documented step-by-step: what the student types in and how AutoCAD responds is spelled out in discrete and clear steps with numerous screen shots.
• Extensive supporting graphics (screen shots) and a summary with a self-test section and topic specific drawing exercises are included at the end of each chapter.  Additional practice is gained through  projects that the students work on as they progress through the chapters.
• Also available in a comprehensive volume that includes coverage of 3D drawing and modeling in AutoCad.  ISBN for comprehensive volume is 978-0-12-375717-3

Elliot Gindis has used and taught AutoCAD in the New York City area since 1996, logging in well over 20,000 hours of screen time as a designer and consultant in a wide variety of architecture and engineering fields. From 1999 to 2008 he was on staff at the Pratt Institute of Design and as visiting instructor at the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT). He is currently president of Vertical Technologies Consulting and Design, an AutoCAD training firm, and has advised, consulted, or assisted more than 60 companies nationwide in using and optimizing AutoCAD. Elliot is part of the AutoDesk Developers Network and is a Certified Technical Trainer.