Mark Dix (Beverley, MA) began working with AutoCAD in 1985 as a programmer for CAD Support Associates Inc. He helped design a system for creating estimates and bills of material directly from AutoCAD drawing databases for use in the automated conveyor industry. This system became the basis for systems still widely in use today. In 1986, he began collaborating with Paul Riley to create AutoCAD training materials, combining Riley's background in industrial design and training with Dix's background in writing, curriculum development, and programming. Dix and Riley have created tutorial teaching methods for every AutoCAD release since version 2.5. Mr. Dix has a Master of Arts in Teaching from Cornell University and a Masters in Education from the University of Massachusetts. Paul Riley (Needham, MA) has been an instructor and designer specializing in graphics and design of multimedia. He is a founding partner of CAD Support Associates, a contract service and professional training organization for computer aided design. His 15 years of business experience and 20 years of teaching experience are supported by degrees in education and computer science. Paul has taught AutoCAD at the University of Massachusetts, Lowell and Mt. Ida College in Newton, MA. He has developed a program, Computer Aided Design for Professionals, that is highly regarded and has been an ongoing success for the past 15 years.

This book presents a hands-on, activity-based approach to the use of AutoCAD as a drafting tool-complete with techniques, tips, shortcuts, and insights that improve efficiency. Topics and tasks are carefully grouped to lead students logically through the AutoCAD command set, with the level of difficulty increasing steadily as skills are acquired through experience and practice. Straightforward explanations focus on what is relevant to actual drawing procedures, and illustrations show exactly what to expect on the computer screen. This edition features updates for the latest release of AutoCAD, projects, and test questions for each chapter.Lessons are broken down into tasks listed at the beginning of each section, introducing students to the AutoCAD commands using a structured, intuitive approach and helping students anticipate what information will be needed at each new phase of the learning process.General Procedure boxes appear as new commands are introduced, providing a simple overview of basic command procedures in a step-by-step format.Detailed graphics appear throughout the text, demonstrating what students should expect to see on their screens and encouraging self-paced study.Drawing problems appear at the end of the chapter, helping students apply newly learned techniques immediately to realistic drawing situations. This includes drawing suggestions, timesaving tips, and explanations of how to use techniques in actual situations.High-quality working drawings accompany end-of-chapter drawing problems, appearing in a large, clearly dimensioned format on each right-hand page. This includes mechanical, architectural, civil, and electrical drawings.Bonus drawing projects appear in Appendix A, giving students additional review and practice.