Draw what you know and see. Just because what you are looking at does not look like the stereotypical object does not make it any less interesting to draw. In addition just because you know what something is "supposed to" look like does not mean you have to draw it just like that.

Never give up. Every great artist got their start by just putting pen, pencil, or brush to paper and seeing what happened. Also, don't quit too early in your attempt to draw something. Keep working at it and eventually you will get what you want.

Less can be more when you're first starting out. Work on getting the structure first, and once you have perfected that you can go in and add the details of the image. Don't get hung up trying to do the details before it is time for them.

Shading is an important technique to master. There are a variety of different ways to shade an image - such as with angled or circular strokes of the pencil. It is best to start off shading too light and darken as necessary instead of shading too dark and having to figure out how to lighten it.

When you start out drawing make sure you have the right tools for what you want to accomplish. Make sure you have the proper pencil and paper as well as a good eraser. The better the quality of your tools, the better your image will be.

Practice makes perfect. Draw at every chance you get. Keep a small doodle note pad in your book-bag, pocket, or purse so that when you have a spare moment you can practice your skills.

Sign up for a beginners drawing class at your local arts center or community college. This is a great way to learn and to meet other people who share the same interest as you. You can also lend each other support when you're having a bad drawing day.

A great way to practice is to draw basic shapes - like squares, triangles, ovals, and circles - over and over again. These shapes are the basis on which all other images will be based, so if you can draw a perfect oval, moving on to other aspects of drawing a face will be easier.

There are loads of books, magazines, and websites dedicate to drawing. Take advantage of this wealth of information. If you think Leonardo DaVinci was great, imagine what he would have been like if he had the wealth of information and advice that is available today!

Have faith in yourself and don't get discouraged. Always think positively, and try not be too hard on yourself. If you are always telling yourself that your drawings are bad, then they will continue to be drawings that you do not like.

Remember that everyone's style and approach to their artwork is different. Do not focus too much on the qualities of another artist's at the risk of losing what is really important about drawing/art - individualistic expression. Observe the techniques of other artists' works but allow yourself to free your mind so that you may begin to mold your own style. Find your strengths and embrace them.

Visit a local art museum or gallery. Explore the techniques and history of artists to better understand their mode of inspiration or passion. Then take the time immediately after, to reflect on your direction as an artist. Have a sketchbook or canvas on hand so that you're well prepared if you feel that rush of inspiration.

Never use your hand to brush away eraser shavings. The oil in your hands will smudge your work. Instead, use something like a feather duster.

Proportion, Proportion, Proportion! When drawing figures, the average person is 7 1/2 heads tall.

Remember, you are your own worst critic. If you have doubts about your work, take a break and have someone else look at it.