"Jack Stein" wrote in message
...
On 12/7/2010 2:55 PM, blueman wrote:
Snip



Next, go to Window, and select Model Info. Select Units and pick
fractional and something less precise. I use 1/16th, but probably should
use 1/8th.

Actually I would not suggest as coarse an 1/8" as you often have to split
that distance




This makes it easier to use the mouse to size things. I spend a lot of
time trying to get lengths to a half inch or 1/4" before giving up and
typing the numbers in. I still do, but this helps.

For years I waited for AutoCAD LT and Auto Sketch to add Dirrect Distance
Entry, DDS. Much much faster if you simply click to start a line and drag
the mouse in the dirrection you want to go. Type in the distance you want
and enter, done deal. Watching for a snap distance can be tedious.



My next tip is hot keys. You must learn some always used hot keys for
woodworkers. These are imperative:

Spacebar: Select
R: Rectangle
M: Move
P: Push

I also suggest adding L to start a line. G to form a component. D for
dimension, Alt D to dimension an angle. T for Tape measure. Some of these
are "MY" shortcuts. Any time I can type in a letter instead of going to an
icon for a command I save time. These short cuts can be changed and or
added very easily.

AND I set my center scroll wheel click to invoke the Orbit command.