In the past, 3D modelling software was hard to use and expensive. The release of the first version of SketchUp in 2000 changed all that. It allowed users to build 3D models easier with lines and shapes. The 2020 version offers even more features to enhance your workflow.

There are two flavors of SketchUp: the free version (SketchUp Make) and the full version (SketchUp Pro). Most of the things you can do with the Pro can also be done with the free one, but the latter is designed only for noncommercial use.

Features and Highlights

Scale Figure

SketchUp displays a little person, called a scale figure, on your screen. The figure’s appearance is based on Laura, a member of the SketchUp team. It is not without reason why she is standing at the intersection of the lines. She basically helps you to design your 3D models. You may talk to her if you want to, but you should never expect a conversation.

Keyboard Shortcut

When you need to do something and you are not holding your mouse, you should use shortcut keys. These can increase your efficiency as well as reduce mental fatigue. SketchUp Pro 2020 offers a variety of shortcuts, some of which are worth remembering such as Eraser (E), Paint Bucket (B), Undo (Ctrl + Z), and Tape Measure (T).

The Instructor

Novice users would appreciate this feature as it can speed up the learning process. As the name implies, this is the panel that tells users what to do with whatever tool they happen to activate. It can be hidden and unhidden at will so it won’t get in the way when it is no longer necessary.

Library of Styles

A model’s appearance can be changed instantly by applying a style. In SketchUp Pro 2020, you will find a library of premade styles, each of which is a collection of settings that control the appearance of your model. You can switch between different styles to see which one suits your model the best.

These styles can be customized to suit your taste. You will also be able to see all of the styles that you have applied to your model, including the ones that are no longer applied.

Style Builder

Everyone who uses SketchUp Pro 2020 has the privilege to access and use Style Builder. This is a separate application, which is automatically installed together with the main software. What it does is giving you a possibility to create unique styles, which you can share with someone if you want to. Note, however, that this application is no longer supported in the latest version at the time of writing.

SketchUp Pro 2020 Free Download

Since its debut in 2000, SketchUp has won numerous awards, but most important of all it has a significant role in making 3D modelling software becomes more accessible to a wider audience across the world.

As with other software that are fully packed with features, it takes time to master SketchUp, but the journey is definitely worth it. You can click the link below to download SketchUp Pro 2020 for Windows: