LockwoodSTEMStudent Engineering Hub
Engineering Drawings

Study Guide

Prepare to create and interpret drawings that clearly communicate how a part is shaped, sized, and documented.

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1. Purpose of engineering drawings

  • Engineering drawings communicate exact part shape, size, features, and production requirements.
  • A drawing should allow someone else to inspect, fabricate, or model the part accurately.
  • Drawings use standard conventions so information is understood consistently.
  • A good drawing is clear, complete, and not cluttered.
  • Drawings should match the design intent and current revision of the part.

2. Orthographic views

  • Common views include front, top, and right side.
  • The front view should show the most descriptive shape when possible.
  • Views must be aligned so width, height, and depth match correctly.
  • Only include the views needed to fully describe the part.
  • Additional views may be added when the main views do not show enough information.

3. Line conventions

  • Visible/object lines show edges that can be seen.
  • Hidden lines show edges or features behind visible surfaces.
  • Centerlines show axes of symmetry, holes, cylinders, and circular features.
  • Dimension and extension lines communicate measurements.
  • Construction or reference geometry should not compete with final drawing information.

4. Dimensioning basics

  • Dimensions should describe size and location clearly.
  • Use the fewest dimensions needed to define the part without missing information.
  • Avoid duplicate or conflicting dimensions.
  • Place dimensions where they are easy to read and relate to the correct feature.
  • Use appropriate precision based on the part and classroom requirements.

5. Holes, circles, and repeated features

  • Use diameter symbols or notes for circular features when appropriate.
  • Locate hole centers using centerlines and dimensions.
  • Repeated features can be documented with quantity notes when clear.
  • Do not dimension to hidden lines when a clearer visible view is available.
  • Hole callouts should communicate size and location clearly enough for fabrication or inspection.

6. Title blocks, scale, and notes

  • A title block identifies the part, project, student/team, date, scale, units, and revision when required.
  • Scale tells how the drawing view size relates to real part size.
  • Units should be clear and consistent.
  • Notes can communicate material, finish, manufacturing process, or special instructions.
  • Labels and notes should support the drawing without replacing required dimensions.

7. Section and detail views

  • Section views show interior features by imagining the part cut open.
  • Cutting plane lines identify where the section is taken.
  • Hatching shows the cut material surface in a section view.
  • Detail views enlarge small or complex areas that are hard to read at normal scale.
  • Use section/detail views only when they improve communication.

8. Revisions and checking

  • Check that every important feature is visible, located, and sized.
  • Compare the drawing to the part/CAD model before submitting.
  • Revision notes should explain what changed and why.
  • Update the drawing when the model or design changes.
  • A drawing with outdated dimensions can cause incorrect fabrication or inspection.

Hands-on performance checklist

To earn the badge, students must produce a clear engineering drawing with aligned views, correct line conventions, appropriate dimensions, a title block, and revision readiness.

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