<h3>Showing depth on flat paper</h3><p><strong>Oblique projection</strong> is a drawing technique that shows an object in three dimensions on a flat surface. Its defining feature is simple: the <strong>front face</strong> is drawn true to its real shape and size, while the <strong>depth</strong> is drawn going back at an <strong>angle</strong>, most commonly 45 degrees.</p><p>Because the front is undistorted, oblique drawings are easy to read and quick to make. There are two main types based on how the depth is scaled:</p><ul><li><strong>Cavalier projection</strong> — the depth is drawn at <strong>full size</strong>. It is easy but looks slightly stretched and unrealistic.</li><li><strong>Cabinet projection</strong> — the depth is drawn at <strong>half size</strong>. This looks more natural and realistic.</li></ul><p>To draw a shaped block, you: (1) draw the front view true to scale, (2) draw depth lines from its edges at 45 degrees, (3) mark the depth (full for cavalier, half for cabinet), (4) connect the back edges, and (5) add labels or dimensions. Oblique projection is widely used in product design, engineering, architecture and education for fast, clear technical sketches.</p><div class="callout"><strong>Kenyan context:</strong> A jua kali artisan in Nairobi's Gikomba sketching a metal box for a customer can use a quick oblique drawing — front face exact, depth at 45 degrees — to agree on the design before cutting any sheet metal.</div>