Google SketchUp 6

Google SketchUp is a deceptively simple, amazingly powerful tool for creating, viewing, and modifying 3D ideas quickly and easily. Google SketchUp was developed to combine the elegance and spontaneity of pencil sketching with the speed and flexibility of today's digital media.

Developed for the conceptual stages of design, this powerful yet easy-to-learn software allows for quick and easy 3D form creation, the result is an interface that supports a dynamic, creative exploration of 3D form, material and light.

Google SketchUp combines a compact yet robust tool-set with an intelligent guidance system that streamlines the 3D drawing process.

How can I best learn how to use Google SketchUp?

Videos
To get started fast, view the Google SketchUp tutorials:
Video tutorials. In Google SketchUp open the "Help" menu, and then click "View Tutorials".
Self-paced tutorials. In Google SketchUp open the "Help" menu, point to "Self-Paced Tutorials," and then click "Part 1" to get started. These tutorials run in SketchUp and invite you to try the things you are learning.


The Instructor
To find out what all the tools do, click each tool's button. Information about the selected tool is displayed in the Instructor. If you don't see the Instructor, open the "Window" menu, and then click "Instructor." You can also refer to the Google SketchUp Quick Reference card: open the "Help" menu, and then click "Quick Reference."


Google SketchUp Online Help
To learn more about how to use Google SketchUp, including all of its tools and other functionality, read the user's guide: open the "Help" menu, and then click "SketchUp Help".


Google SketchUp Help Center
You can find answers to many questions in this Google SketchUp Help Center, just search on a common term or phrase in your question, or browse through the categories.


Google SketchUp User Group
The user group is an excellent place to find answers, ask questions, and share your expertise. To visit the group, open the "Help" menu, and then click "Google SketchUp Community," or click this link: http://groups.google.com/group/SketchUp.


Play and explore!
Most importantly, play and explore! Right-click a lot, you'll often discover a shortcut menu full of actions related to the tool you're using and the thing you're pointing at.