# Creating a new project

This will take you step-by-step through **your first steps in the editor.**

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### Creating a model <a href="#h_064b5664d5" id="h_064b5664d5"></a>

To start a new project, you can either:

* Create a new model from scratch&#x20;
* Import a DWG/DXF, a PDF or an image ([more on this topic here](/documentation/import-export/dwg-dxf-import.md))
* Start from a template&#x20;

For now, let's start simple, and begin by creating a new model from scratch. Click on **`+ New Model`**. This will **create a new drawing in your workspace and open it.**

<figure><img src="/files/yShrY9UAAysjLMzDOmAj" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
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### The model canvas <a href="#h_24f5548ecb" id="h_24f5548ecb"></a>

You just arrived in the model canvas! It is **a blank space where you can draw.** Let’s explore the various panels of the interface...

<figure><img src="/files/B24UcUFHWDuGqSLOiHAf" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
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### **The left-side panels**

In the top left corner of the canvas, you will find the **main panels:**

* The main menu (to go back to your workspace, export, or import)
* The [layers](/documentation/design/layers.md) panel
* The [block library](/documentation/design/blocks.md) panel
* The [styles](/documentation/design/styles.md) panel
* The [pages](/documentation/layout-and-present/pages.md) panel
* The [tables](/documentation/layout-and-present/tables.md) panel
* The [properties](/documentation/layout-and-present/custom-properties.md) panel
* The [reference panel](/documentation/import-export/dwg-dxf-import.md#importing-xrefs)
* The [comments/annotations](/documentation/rayons-basics/sharing-commenting-annotating.md) panel
* The AI panel (coming soon)

<figure><img src="/files/IsAH5X4Li9oZx1bQ3s2z" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
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### The properties panel

On the right side, you will find the properties panel; at its top, you will have access to the **model's...**&#x20;

* **Sync** status & model history
* **Presentation** mode
* **Sharing** options
* Users' **avatars**&#x20;

<figure><img src="/files/U4hJbu8THHm3xfZfElmK" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

The panel, itself, is then filled by different sections...

* **`Model`** documents the properties of the model you are in,
* **`Canvas`** lists the modes and units your model uses
* Other sections will describe the properties of your current selection

<figure><img src="/files/gZdpQDSdKH5hhQP5aFyc" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

In the bottom right corner, you will find...

* **The snapping option**s, that defines how your cursor should snap onto geometries when you draw.
* **The units and zoom level dropdown**, allowing you to set the model's unit and the current view zoom level

<figure><img src="/files/gusKCxPBcPGgUWFd5NuD" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
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### The toolbar

The bottom toolbar contains all the following tools...

* **The** **`Element`** **tools** : all the basic geometries.
* **The** **`Shape`** **tools** : all constructive objects.
* **The** **`Annotation`** **tools**: text, dimensions, leaders, etc.
* **The** **`Editing`** **tools** : for editing existing geometries, as in any professional CAD software.
* **The** **`Layout`** **tools**: for creating layouts (views, pages, tables).
* **The** **`Utilities` :** for commenting/doodling or simply measuring things.

<figure><img src="/files/2mOneLIZ3B0rd6ckNCFo" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
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### Next step

You are done! \
Head to the next step, **click below!**

<a href="/pages/e7Thuc0Ga7ZLylbbMWHD" class="button primary">Next step</a>
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### Tutorial

For more step-by-step information, watch our tutorial about how to start in a new model.

{% embed url="<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtNP0_XCOrM>" %}

***

### We are always available

Book a demo with our team, [right here](https://b1kzip68v9f.typeform.com/to/Hgr0eQ4k#source=docs).\
To get some support, reach out to us through our **in-app support chat**. \
More about [our support policy right here](/other-resources/others/support.md).


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