I’ve noticed that a lot of beginners, including myself when I was starting, make some common mistakes that slow down progress. Here are six mistakes you might be making and how to avoid them.
1. Not Copying
Copying a photo reference you really like or anything that excites you is actually super helpful (not tracing though). While copying, try to analyze how you do it, how you made the drawing. It doesn’t really need to be “how it should be,” it’s more about how you do it and just having fun while copying your favorite things. This trains your eye as an artist.
Another method is selective copying, this is for artists that have leveled up their copying skills. It means gathering specific parts from different references and putting them together to make a whole. For example, you might like the anatomy from one artist and the color palette from another, and you combine them in your own way.
2. J.I.C or Just in Case Learning in Drawing
Learning nonstop or studying many art fundamentals just in case you might need them in the future doesn’t really work. If you learn something without using it in real time, your brain mostly forgets it and treats it like junk mail. It feels productive, but you actually retain nothing.
Instead, try J.I.T or Just in Time learning. That means learning something exactly when you need it. For example, if you need to draw a certain body part, look it up, study it, and apply it immediately. Your brain remembers it because it’s solving a real problem.
3. No Goals
A goal is important. It doesn’t have to be huge, even little goals make a big difference. It should be something that actually motivates you to keep drawing.
For me, I started a project like comics, it gave me a reason to keep drawing every day. I learned to make character sheets, write stories, practice perspective and composition, and draw things I had never tried before in one step at a time.
4. Not Learning Your Software
Digital art software has a lot of features that can make your work way easier. Beginners often ignore these tools and end up struggling more than they need to. Take the time to learn brushes, layers, shortcuts, and other tools to make your workflow smoother.
5. Drawing Alone
It’s easy to isolate yourself when drawing, but being part of an art community helps a lot. You can share your work, join challenges, or ask for advice when you’re stuck. I’ve learned more by engaging with other artists than just drawing alone.
6. No Breaks
Practicing every day is important but working nonstop can lead to burnout. Always take guilt-free breaks. Your brain and creativity need rest. Art should be fun, not stressful, so don’t push yourself too hard.