This detailed step-by-step guide, updated for this edition, begins with essential techniques – from the effects of varied pencils on different papers to the subtle differences between pen strokes and patterns. Having outlined the necessary basic techniques, the book offers a wide variety of exercises to allow the reader to perfect their skills – from lessons in anatomy, facial expression and depicting movement to dressing the character, creating dialogue and using backgrounds. The text explains concepts and methods used by professional cartoonists to help build a scene, develop a narrative, and create a wide range of environments in which the characters can interact. The book also helps to unravel the complexities of digital manipulation, with screengrabs and explanations of the methods used, step-by-step.