Beginner Question!

Nrxszvo

Good day SketchUcation community! I have scouted around on the forums here for some time now, along with playing about with SketchUp occasionally. I find it more and more addictive each time I use it. I have a few questions that I would like to be answered if you'd be so kind.

What would be the most efficient way to learn SketchUp in great depth? Any suggestions on books, tutorials or any other information that would be useful! Playing around was fun at the start, but I would like to approach this from a more serious stand point now.
I would like to be able to oganize new projects in a specific way (for example, brain storm > sketch > draft > etc). However I can't find any useuful information on such a thing. So, once again, any suggestion on books, tutorials or any other information that would be useful? Or, how would you personally approach a new project? (Professional opinions would be great!).
Plug-ins, for the most part, are something that I can not decide if to use, or what is best to use, or if it is worth using any. I could use some assistance if possible!

I think that it is it for now. I do apologise if these questions constantly come up, my search skills are not that great and I couldn't find the answers I was looking for. If you'd like to know any extra information I can provide as much as possible!

Thank you for taking the time to read my email. I appreciate it very much!

mirome

Roger

Trial and error may not be the most efficient method of learning SU, but banging your head against a wall does help drive home what works and what does not. In regard to Plug ins, they are the efficiency of using SU. If you ignore them, you are wasting time and inviting errors. The weakest part of plugins is lack of consistent user interaction philosophy and in adequate documentation. But that said if you use SU professionally you should aggressively seek out plugins that will speed and improve your work.

unigami

"Google SketchUp for Dummies" by Aidan Chopra is an excellent text, and I love his writing style. Also check out his videos on YouTube and the other SketchUp tutorials there. "Google SketchUp for Site Design" by Daniel Tal is also a really helpful book.