WELCOME TO DAY 3!
Today we are drawing an elevation.
By combining command line shortcuts, grip editing, and transparent commands, we’ll produce a 2D elevation faster than relying on menus or ribbons. Mastering these keystrokes is the most efficient way to develop your CAD skills.
1. Start with a Clean Screen
- CTRL + 0 Toggles a clean workspace.
- Why: removes distractions and forces you to rely on commands.
2. Basic Drawing Commands
- L
LINE– the foundation for all geometry. - REC
RECTANGLE– quick walls, windows, and doors. - C
CIRCLE– for openings or details. - Tip: Type distances directly (e.g.,
28',5.5) without menus.
3. Editing with Shortcuts
- MI
MIRROR– copy elements across a centerline instantly. - O
OFFSET– build trim, walls, or frames with exact spacing. - TR
TRIM– clean up overlaps in a single keystroke. - X
EXPLODE– break polylines or rectangles into editable lines. - E
ERASE– remove unnecessary geometry.
4. Grip Editing with the Spacebar
- Select an object, click a grip:
- Press SPACEBAR once Move mode.
- Press SPACEBAR twice Rotate mode.
- Why: keeps your hand on the keyboard, no toolbars needed.
5. Precision with Snaps & Transparent Commands
- OSNAP Endpoint, Midpoint, Intersection, Perpendicular.
- MTP Midpoint between two points, perfect for centering objects.
- Tip: These transparent commands save time and reduce guesswork.
6. Navigation Shortcuts
- P
PANor use middle mouse button. - Scroll wheel — Zoom.
- Why: fast navigation without leaving the keyboard.
Follow along with the video and recreate the 2D elevation using only commands (L, REC, C, MI, O, TR, X, E, MTP). Use grips + SPACEBAR to move and rotate objects, and practice precision with object snaps and offsets. As you watch, press the SPACEBAR to pause whenever you need extra time, and use the left arrow key to rewind a few seconds if you miss a step. By the end, you should have a simple elevation with walls, a door, a window, a round window above, and a roofline — all built quickly with shortcuts.