Yesterday I read a bit about gridding technique on the Internet and a question popped up in my head: If you use a grid to help you draw your subject, do you also draw the basic shapes in the beginning of the process (as taught in Beginners lessons)? I know basic shapes are a great way to start your sketch, or if you draw without a reference, but I don't know how they relate to gridding.

Greetings. No, you would not be drawing any shape-structure. You are gridding to allow you to draw an accurate line drawing, place facial features accurately (if a portrait), points of interest, etc., and do a shade map (if you use the technique). All "rendering" is done after grid lines are removed (obviously). I recommend having 2 copies of your reference... one you have gridded accurately (I use a fine tip sharpie), and one that is intact.

Thanks a lot!