You should practice handling and using drafting instruments before attempting complex drawing problems. Developing correct drawing habits will enable you to make continuous improvement in the quality of your drawings. The

Figure 3-1.-Sharpening pencil points.      

main purpose of making your first drawings is to learn to use instruments. Each drawing will offer an opportunity for practice. Later on, good form in the use of instruments will become a natural habit.

Accurate pencil drawings are of first importance since all inked drawings and tracings are made from finished pencil drawings. It is a mistake to believe that a poor pencil drawing can be corrected when you make the ink tracing. Any drawing important enough to be inked or traced in ink must be accurate, legible, and neat. Because most military and commercial blueprints are made from pencil drawings, ambitious trainees will work to acquire skill in pencil drawing as they perfect their technique. Good technique and skillful pencil drawing are basic to proficiency in drafting. 

The following sections will guide you in attaching your drawing paper to the board and in drawing basic lines with the T square, triangles, and pencil.