Google SketchUp® 7 For Dummies®

Chapter 2. Establishing the Modeling Mind-Set

In This Chapter

• Understanding edges and faces

• Representing three dimensions on a two-dimensional screen

• Finding out about the colored drawing axes

• Inferencing like a pro

• Seeing what you're doing

• Drawing edges accurately

• Working precisely with the Measurement box

• Selecting things to work on

• Moving and copying objects in your model

• Using guides to line things up

• Adding color and texture to your work

When you were learning how to drive a car, you probably didn't just get behind the wheel, step on the gas, and figure it out as you went along. (If you did, you probably have bigger things to worry about than getting started with SketchUp.) My point is, you should really know several things before you get started. This chapter is dedicated to introducing those things — concepts, really — that can make your first few hours with SketchUp a lot more productive and fun.

So here's the deal: I've divided this chapter into three main parts:

• The first part talks about edges and faces — the basic stuff that SketchUp models are made of.

• The second part deals with the way SketchUp lets you work in 3D (three dimensions) on a 2D (flat) surface — namely, your computer screen. Understanding how SketchUp represents depth is everything when it comes to making models. If you've never used 3D modeling software before, pay close attention to the middle part of this chapter.

• The final part of this chapter is all about the things you need to do all the time — things like navigating ...