Single-view selection for a uniform-thickness plywood part A designer is drawing a part made entirely from 3/4" thick plywood and wants to show it with only one view. Which single orthographic view should be used to communicate the shape most clearly?

Introduction / Context:
Orthographic projection commonly uses front, top, and side views. For simple plate-like parts of constant thickness, one carefully chosen view can fully convey the outline while a note specifies thickness. Choosing the best single view improves clarity and minimizes drafting effort.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The part is a planar profile cut from 3/4" plywood with uniform thickness everywhere.
• No beveled edges or thickness variations need to be shown.
• Standard practice allows one view plus a thickness note for plate or sheet parts.

Concept / Approach:
When thickness is uniform, the view that best shows the overall shape (planform) is preferred. For most flat plate parts, the top view shows the true shape of the outline with all essential geometry; thickness is then called out as a note (e.g., “Material: 3/4" plywood”). Side or front views only show the edge profile and typically add little information beyond thickness, which is already constant.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Drafting handbooks recommend a single principal view plus a thickness/material note for flat plates, sheet-metal blanks, and wood panels. This convention avoids redundant edge views that do not add geometric detail.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Front/right/back views: edge-on views mainly show thickness and lengths, not the full shape; they are less informative than the top view for plate parts.
• Isometric only: isometrics are helpful but typically supplement, not replace, a principal orthographic view. One orthographic view is standard for fabrication drawings.

Common Pitfalls:

• Choosing a view that hides cutouts/holes; always select the orientation that exposes the most geometry in true size.
• Forgetting to include a clear thickness/material callout.

Final Answer:
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