Drawings is defined as the action of making marks on any surface with any mark-making
material. It is clear, by this definition, that anyone can draw. If you can write your name, well then - you can draw. Now that we've established that, we all know that some of us can draw better than others. Becoming skilled at drawing requires several factors coming together. Some of the factors include desire, instructions, practice, time, and some more practice. This will be used so you can immediately see results in your drawing abilities. This list of tips on drawing is not a "catch all" formula for drawing.
Drawing is a Skill
This means that drawing is not some magical activity that some people are born with the ability to do. A skill is something that could be taught and most importantly - learned. If you want to draw, draw better, or draw as a professional - you can. Anyone can become skilled at drawing. Never say, "I can't draw".
Drawing is at Least 50% Observation
Drawing is about seeing. Have you ever taken a photo of something without pointing the camera at it? Of course you haven't. Yet so many people think they can draw well without looking at an object. Then they become disappointed that their drawings don't look representational. You must look at objects to draw them. I suggest that the amount of time you spend looking at your object should be half the time it takes to finish the drawing. Drawing is at least 50% observation. If you want to draw an elephant, then look at an elephant. Really study it. Understand why you see it that way, then draw it. Everyone know that one way to cheat on a test is to look at someone else's paper. When you draw, look at your object - the answers are there.
Use Resources
Gather photos or better yet take photos of objects if you can't draw them in person. Some people may forsake me for this one. It's just not possible to draw everything from life. So when you can't be in the African Savannah to draw that lion, use a photo or three.
Look For Basic Shapes
Just about everything in the world can be simplified into basic shapes. When you are studying your subject, try to pick out the basic shapes that make up the overall shape. Usually these shapes are pretty easy to draw. Draw the shapes then draw the contours (outlines).
Use a Full Range of Value
Value is the darkness or lightness of a color. So value is about light. We can't see without light, therefore we see things because of value. It's not about color. Make a value scale then use it. Make sure your drawing has a full range of value. You define the light source through your use of value
Use Line Quality
Line quality is the thickness or thinness of a line. If your drawing is a line drawing, you need to consider line quality. Draw your lines thicker in some areas and thinner in other areas. This will add interest to your drawing as well variety.
Notice how it's all one continuous line
Stay Consistent With Your Style
Make sure you start and finish your drawings with the same style. If you start your drawing loose and gestural, keep it that way. If your drawing begins tight and precise, finish that way. Make sure the drawing looks like the same artist drew everything on the surface. This will insure your drawing is unified and harmonious.
Know Your Medium
Make sure you understand the correct way to use the medium that you are using for your drawing. It's find to experiment, but knowing and understanding your limitation with a medium goes a long way.
Loosen Up
Drawing doesn't have to be stiff. In fact, it shouldn't be. For example, when you are trying to find the contour of your object, draw several light lines. You have a better chance at "finding" the right line when you draw several. (You have a better chance at winning the lottery with several tickets than just one). Try holding the pencil differently then how you hold it when you write. Draw with you shoulder instead of your wrist, moving your whole arm.
Practice, Practice, and then - Practice Some More
This is the best tip there is. You must practice. This is true of any skill. Keep a sketchbook and draw literally everything you see. Draw everyday. When you can't draw, look at objects and imagine how you would draw them. What shapes are there? What values are there? Where's the light source? What medium would I use? Drawing can take place between your eyes.
I do not own these tips