Before they invented drawing boards, what did they go back to?
The phrase “back to the drawing board” is an idiom that originated in the mid-20th century and is often used to convey the need to start over or rethink a plan that has failed. The saying is metaphorical and does not refer to an actual drawing board in the literal sense.
The invention of drawing boards or drafting boards predates the use of the idiom. Drafting boards have been used for centuries by architects, engineers, and artists as a flat surface on which to create technical drawings, plans, or artistic sketches. They typically consist of a smooth, adjustable surface on which paper is placed for drawing.
So, before the use of drawing boards, people would have used alternative surfaces for drafting and sketching. This could include tables, desks, or other flat and sturdy surfaces where individuals could create their drawings or plans. The idiom “back to the drawing board” doesn’t refer to a specific historical practice but rather captures the idea of reassessing and starting anew when faced with challenges or setbacks.
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