If you're looking for a tutorial or stand-alone reference to AutoCAD and its latest features, Mastering AutoCAD 2009 and AutoCAD LT 2009 is a book that can serve as both. Understand the basics of interface and drafting tools, review intermediate skills like using hatches, fields and tables, and master advanced topics like attributes, dynamic blocks, drawing curves and solid fills, 3D modeling and imaging, and customization and integration. Learn everything you need to know about AutoCAD from concise explanations, focused examples, step-by-step instructions and hand-on projects.

George Omura is a licensed architect and Autodesk Authorized Author who has more than 30 years of experience in architecture and has been using AutoCAD for more than 20 years. He has worked on design projects ranging from resort hotels to metropolitan transit systems to the San Francisco Library project. He is the all-time bestselling AutoCAD author and was cited as favorite CAD author by members of the Autodesk User Group International (AUGI) in AUGIWorld magazine's "Best of Everything CAD" issue.

The World's Bestselling AutoCAD Resource Fully Updated for 2009

There's a reason why Mastering AutoCAD is so popular year after year. Loaded with concise explanations, step-by-step instructions, and hands-on projects, this comprehensive reference and tutorial from award-winning author George Omura has everything you need to become an AutoCAD expert.

If you're new to AutoCAD, the tutorials will help you build your skills right away. If you're an AutoCAD veteran, Omura's in-depth explanations of the latest features, including the new Ribbon interface and new Action Recorder, will turn you into an AutoCAD pro. Whatever your experience level and however you use AutoCAD, you'll refer to this indispensable reference again and again.

Coverage includes:

• Creating and developing AutoCAD drawings

• Drawing curves and applying solid fills

• Effectively using hatches, fields, and tables

• Manipulating dynamic blocks and attributes

• Linking drawings to databases and spreadsheets

• Rendering realistic interior views with natural lighting

• Giving a hand-drawn look to 3D views

• Presenting 3D models with cutaway and x-ray views

• Making spiral forms with the Helix and Sweep tools

• Finding open drawings fast with the new Quick View Drawings tool

• Browsing recent files and toolbar selections using the new Menu Browser

• Converting multiple layer settings and other layer translator options

• Explore the New Ribbon Interface

• Automate Repetitive Tasks with the Action Recorder

• Organize Drawing Information with Layers

• Annotate, Secure, and Authenticate Files

• Track Your Projects with the Sheet Set Manager

• Publish Drawings over the Internet and eTransmit Your Files

2. Creating Your First Drawing.

3. Setting Up and Using AutoCAD's Drafting Tools.

4. Organizing Objects with Blocks and Groups.

5. Getting Organized with Layers and Line Types.

6. Editing and Reusing Data to Work Efficiently.

7. Mastering Viewing Tools, Hatch

8. Introducing Printing, Plotting, and Layouts.

9. Understanding Plot Styles.

10. Adding Text to Drawings.

11. Using Fields and Tables.

12. Using Dimensions.

13. Using Attributes.

14. Copying Pre-existing Drawings into AutoCAD.

15. Advanced Editing and Organizing.

16. Laying Out your Printer Output.

17. Using Dynamic Blocks.

18. Drawing Curves and Solid Fills.

19. Getting and Exchanging Data from Drawings.

20. Introducing 3D Creating 3D Drawings with Surfaces.

21. Using Advanced 3D Features.

22. Rendering 3D Drawings.

23. Mastering 3D Solids.

24. Using the Express Tools.

25. Introducing AutoLISP.

26. Customizing Toolbars, Menus, Line Types and Hatch

27. Managing and Sharing Your Drawings.

28. Using Sheet Sets.