Basic Concepts

  • A SOLIDWORKS model consists of 3D solid geometry in a part or assembly document.
  • Drawings are created from models, or by drafting views in a drawing document.
  • Typically, you begin with a sketch, create a base feature, and then add more features to your model. (You can also begin with an imported surface or solid geometry.)
  • You can refine your design by adding, editing, or reordering features.
  • Associativity between parts, assemblies, and drawings assures that changes made to one document or view are automatically made to all other documents and views.
  • You can generate drawings or assemblies at any time in the design process.
  • With a RealView-compatible graphics card installed, you can display photo-realistic models and environments.
  • Click Tools > Options on the main menu to display System Options and Document Properties.
  • The SOLIDWORKS software saves your work for you with auto-recover. You can also choose to be reminded to save your work.