What drawing techniques should beginners know?

If you're just starting out with drawing, here are some fundamental techniques that will help you build a strong foundation:
1. Basic Line Techniques
Hatching & Cross-Hatching – Creating texture and shading with parallel or intersecting lines.
Contour Drawing– Outlining objects with smooth, continuous lines.
Gesture Drawing – Quick, loose sketches to capture movement and form.

2. Shading & Light
Blending– Using a pencil or blending tool (like a stump) to smooth out shading.
Stippling – Creating depth and texture using dots.
Chiaroscuro– Understanding light and shadow for a dramatic effect.

3. Perspective & Proportion
One-Point Perspective – Used for simple depth, with lines converging at a single point.
Two-Point Perspective – More dynamic, used for drawing buildings and objects in 3D.
Grid Method – Helps with scaling and keeping proportions accurate.

4. Composition & Form
Negative Space Drawing – Focusing on the space around objects to improve accuracy.
Still Life Studies – Practicing by drawing everyday objects.
Breaking Objects into Basic Shapes – Helps simplify complex subjects.

5. Pencil & Pen Control
Different Pencil Grades – Experimenting with soft (B) and hard (H) pencils.
Pressure Control– Adjusting pressure for light or dark strokes.
Using an Eraser Creatively – Lifting highlights and adding texture.