Sketch in Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Visualize Roughly Use 'sketch in' to describe the process of quickly representing visual elements without detail. The architect sketched in the building’s outline. Pro Tip 2/3Creative Progress 'Sketch in' is often used in creative contexts to convey early stages of work. The painter sketched in the landscape before adding colors. Pro Tip 3/3Not Final Using 'sketch in' implies that the work is not in its final form and will be refined later. She sketched in her ideas for the committee's review.