Chapter 2. Exploring the SketchUp Interface
One of the key goals of Google SketchUp is to make the software easy to use, and the interface reflects this goal. The interface is so simple that when you first start, it looks almost sparse, but under the covers are all the various tools and features that you need. These tools and features are cleverly hidden in palettes and toolbars that you can access when you need them and hide them away again to maximize your work area.
Even though the interface is simple, it has a lot of power under the hood that you can only take advantage of if you know it's there. This chapter not only shows you the elegance of the simple interface, but it also unveils the hidden power features.
Learning the Interface Elements
When SketchUp opens, several interface elements are immediately visible that allow you to get right to work. Figure 2.1 shows the various interface elements that are available when you first start. These elements include the following:
Title Bar: The title bar appears at the very top edge of the interface. It displays the current filename and which version of SketchUp you are using. It can also be used to drag and reposition the interface window on the desktop. The title bar also includes icons to minimize, maximize, and close the interface window.
Menus: The menus are the default source for most commands, but ...
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