Introduction to Google Sketchup

I have the Dummies book but bought this book as well, after delaying because of one of the reviews that said to get this book or the other but not both. I am finding that this book is finally getting me into Sketchup so I can do the things I want to do (designing a machine) in ways the Dummies book did not. If you are serious about wanting to master Sketchup and not getting there, working through this book may do the job.

This manual fills a gap in documentation for Sketchup. Many people like myself want to just sit down and read through a coherent hardcopy overview of what the software can do and how to do it - starting from the basic assumption that one knows nothing about the software but is not an idiot with respect to computers in general. Sketchup is primarily obtained via download, so such printed documentation is not generally obtained along with the software - this book rectifies the problem. Structurally the author usually tries to take the step by step approach to achieving a given objective; do this, then do this, then do this, etc., but occasionally, for completeness, breaks down into a simple enumeration and restating of menu and dialog box choices - somewhat less helpful when this happens. For the most part very clearly written, however, and serves the function of a classic "manual" very well. The online videos by the same author (find him on utube) are VERY helpful. Although prepared specifically to coordinate with his other book, Sketchup for Dummies, they can be tied to this book very easily.

Very good book, similar to Google Sketchup for Dummies (same author). Buy one or the other.