Even AutoCAD pros keep this book on hand!

Find out what fans of all the previous bestselling editions of this book already know: This all-in-one guide from AutoCAD guru Ellen Finkelstein has everything you need to master AutoCAD. Start with the fundamentals and quickly progress, or, if you already know AutoCAD, here's all the detail you need to sharpen your skills to a fine point. Every feature is covered. If you want to learn AutoCAD inside and out, this is the book.

-Start drawing right away with a Quick Start project

-Draw, view, and edit in 2D, then add text and dimensions

-Build flexible blocks and automate drawings with fields

-Build, view, and present complex 3D drawings

-Customize commands, use shortcuts, and create macros and slideshows

-Program AutoCAD using AutoLISP and .NET

Blend surfaces and more by using the new surfaces

Control objects with the parametric constraints

Create hatches with the new tab on the Ribbon

This popular AutoCAD reference-tutorial, the AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT Bible, will once again be revised by Ellen Finkelstein a long-time AutoCAD instructor and advocate. Because of its comprehensive coverage, it is very popular among both novice and experienced users. No features are left out. Even some of the employees at Autodesk keep this book at their workstations. "Even we need to look things up," writes an AutoCAD beta manager. "This book is the best one on AutoCAD that I have seen and I will recommend it to others."

Coverage of AutoCAD LT a less expensive, "light" version of AutoCAD is also incorporated throughout the book. Finkelstein starts the book with a Quick Start tutorial, so that even beginners will be doing exciting work with AutoCAD on their very first day.

The chapters begin with the basics of creating drawings, using commands, and specifying coordinates. Finkelstein builds on this these chapters to cover more complex 2D and 3D drawing techniques, including using layers, creating dimensions, 3D coordinates, solids, and rendering. Finally, the book discusses advanced topics such as customization of commands and toolbars, and programming AutoCAD using AutoLISP and VBA.

What's on the DVD?

-Trial versions of both AutoCAD 2011 and AutoCAD LT 2011

-Over 130 before-and-after drawings from working AutoCAD professionals

-A selection of helpful add-on programs

-Video tutorials to help you with the basics and new features

-Bonus chapter on programming AutoCAD with VB.NET

System Requirements: Please see the DVD appendix for details and system requirements.

Start drawing today with Quick Start tutorial

Learn extensive 2D and 3D technical drawing skills