Reducing an object to simple geometric shapes makes it far easier to draw the object. Once the basic shapes are established it becomes a simple case of judging angles and proportions. Oscar here was drawn around an oval.
![Image](http://www.gimpchat.com/files/1812_Simplify%20001.jpg)
By first fixing one or two key elements it becomes easy to see where everything else goes.
![Image](http://www.gimpchat.com/files/1812_Simplify%20004.jpg)
Usually you need to use more than one shape. I started this swan with a distorted rectangle and an oval.
![Image](http://www.gimpchat.com/files/1812_Simplify%20002.jpg)
Spaces form shapes too and drawing them as such helps to position other elements correctly.
![Image](http://www.gimpchat.com/files/1812_Simplify%20003.jpg)
By using simplification and a small amount of knowledge of facial proportions I was able to knock up this face in a couple of minutes without reference.
![Image](http://www.gimpchat.com/files/1812_Simplify%20005.jpg)
If you're totally new to drawing, try some simple shapes like these.
![Image](http://www.gimpchat.com/files/1812_Simplify%20006.jpg)
OK I cheated with the tree, I used Gimp Paint Studio tree foliage but you get the idea.