A good option is to start by precisely copying simple drawings: while (precise) copy is of little to no artistic value, it's immensely useful to learn the craft

A good option is to start by precisely copying simple drawings: while (precise) copy is of little to no artistic value, it's immensely useful to learn the craft. For a beginner, I would recommend a two-fold plan: 1) spend 80% of your time copying well-chosen works (things you like, and that are at your current level); 2) spend 20% of the remaining time, first getting a firm grip on perspective, and then experimenting, sketching around from life/memory/imagination, etc. Perspective is foundational[0]. Balancing copy with experimentation is essential: when sketching around, you'll make mistakes and confront yourself to various problems: you'll then be able to look for solutions in the works you're copying. For 1), perhaps consider Bargue plates[1]: they were precisely designed for beginners, by experienced artists/teachers. There are numerous tutorials (e.g. [2]) on the Internet covering the details, as the plates are used by essentially all modern "ateliers". A final note on preciseness: it has two main advantages: 1) you can "easily" self-evaluate (as it gives you a clear goal); 2) you're more likely to notice subtle, fine details you would have otherwise missed with a hastier approach. [0]: https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/46915/pg46915-images.html#Chap_CXII https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/46915/pg46915-images.ht... [1]: https://barguedrawing.wordpress.com/ https://barguedrawing.wordpress.com/ [2]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZm7qih71-w&list=PLOxIqHbLWHCDIMDWVLgKDrfEhedhB4Bxx https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZm7qih71-w&list=PLOxIqHbLWH...