Book excerpt: MASTERING AUTOCAD ® ARCHITECTURE 2010, International Edition explains the process of creating professional-quality building design projects using the newest release of AutoCAD ® Architecture (formally Autodesk ® Architectural Desktop). Using a project-based approach, this text goes beyond a simple rundown of tools and commands to focus on the rationale and practicality of the software through life-tested, practical lessons that emphasize the "why" as well as the "how" in order to help users complete projects successfully. Text and lessons combine to deliver a clear sense of the value of the tools introduced as well each tool’s potential. The result is a fully up-to-date resource that shortens the learning curve and builds confidence and comfort in using the software as a tool to create architecture.