2D design in CAD involves creating precise two-dimensional representations of objects using lines, arcs, and shapes to define the layout, dimensions, and specifications on a flat plane. 2D CAD is efficient for quick design iterations, easy to understand by clients and stakeholders, and ideal for industries prioritizing functional layouts over complex details.

3D design in CAD means creating digital models that show objects in three dimensions—height, width, and depth. This lets you see your design from all angles and make changes easily. You start with simple shapes like cubes or cylinders and build up more complex parts by adding or cutting features. 3D models help visualize how a product will look and work before it’s made, and they can be used directly for manufacturing processes like 3D printing or CNC machining. This makes designing faster, clearer, and more accurate compared to traditional drawing methods

Slicing is a crucial step in 3D printing that converts a 3D digital model into a series of thin, horizontal layers or "slices." Specialized slicing software takes the CAD design and breaks it down into these layers, generating detailed instructions called G-code that tell the 3D printer how to build the object layer by layer. This includes defining the tool paths, printing speed, layer height, and other parameters to ensure the final print is accurate and high quality. Without slicing, the printer would not know how to translate the digital model into a physical object, making it an essential bridge between design and manufacturing

A toolpath for CNC routers is a carefully planned route that the cutting tool follows to shape a workpiece by removing material. It defines the exact movements, including direction, speed, and depth, ensuring the tool cuts precisely according to the design. Toolpaths are created using CAM software, which takes the 3D or 2D CAD model and generates instructions that optimize cutting efficiency, surface finish, and tool life. Different types of toolpaths—such as contouring, pocketing, drilling, and finishing—are used depending on the part’s geometry and machining goals. Properly designed toolpaths are essential for achieving accurate, high-quality parts while minimizing waste and machining time.