What is AutoCAD?
AutoCAD is a computer-aided software design (CAD) program that is used to create and edit 2D and 3D models and drawings. It is a popular tool in many different design industries including architecture, engineering, product design, and interior design. AutoCAD’s automated features, specialized toolsets, and collaboration tools have made it extremely popular and it has millions of users worldwide. It can be utilized to create a wide variety of different types of designs, ranging from basic electrical plans to complete 3D skyscraper models. AutoCAD is owned by Autodesk and is available by subscription.
This application was first released in 1982 and was part of a revolution within the design industry. For the first time, computer-aided design was available on personal computers. This meant that designers no longer had to spend hours drawing everything by hand. Not only does AutoCAD save designers a lot of time, but it has increased accuracy and made revisions far easier. Today, AutoCAD is an industry-standard application in many fields. Autodesk continues to add new tools and features every year.
Why Learn AutoCAD?
AutoCAD knowledge is a foundational skill for many different types of design careers. It is not the only CAD program that professionals use, but it is one of the most popular. Designers use AutoCAD to create drawings that can be used to guide planning and construction, and they may also generate 3D models so that they can see what their designs will look like and analyze them for potential weaknesses. This application is used by Architects to create blueprints and models. It is also used by Engineers, to create plans of designs or parts of design, and by Industrial Designers, who design things like automobiles and machinery. Other professionals who use AutoCAD include Interior Designers and Fashion Designers.
Learn AutoCAD
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One reason AutoCAD is so popular is that it provides many different tools and features. For example, it has industry-specific toolsets like an Electrical toolset, an Architecture toolset, and a Mechanical toolset. Autodesk reports that these toolsets can increase productivity significantly. For example, it finds that the Architecture toolset is associated with a 61 percent increase in productivity, the Mechanical toolset with a 55 percent increase, and the Electrical toolset with a 95 percent increase. Overall, Autodesk says that according to seven different studies it conducted on AutoCAD toolsets, there was an average productivity increase of 63 percent when a toolset was used.
There are many other benefits associated with using AutoCAD. One is that you can see what your finished product will look like before you actually build it. This means that you can analyze it to make sure that it works as planned and to find any flaws or weaknesses. You can then make changes to your design before you invest a lot of time and money in making it. AutoCAD also makes collaboration easy for design teams. Users can create, edit, and share drawings on any mobile device or in a web browser. Finally, AutoCAD remains competitive because it is continually updated with new features. For example, new features for 2024 included something called floating windows, where drawing windows can be displayed side by side or on multiple monitors.
Level of Difficulty, Prerequisites and Cost to Learn AutoCAD
AutoCAD is a technical application, and it can be challenging to master its unique interface and the many different features and tools it offers. With time and practice though, almost anyone can master this application. For most people, it's possible to pick up some basic skills within a matter of days or weeks. However, to master AutoCAD, you’ll probably need to spend close to a year. You’re likely to learn AutoCAD more easily if you have some experience with architecture, engineering, or design. Drawing skills can also be helpful. A formal class can also make the learning experience easier since you’ll have access to expert advice and feedback.
There are no prerequisites to learning AutoCAD, and if you take a beginner class, you won’t be expected to have any existing experience. However, if you have some related experience--such as in design--the learning process is likely to be quicker and easier. One aspect of using this application that some people find particularly challenging is the concept of 3D modeling, which can be difficult even if you already have some drawing experience. Experts advise that it’s important to start with the basics and make sure you have a good understanding of those before you add more complex skills. For instance, don’t jump right into 3D drawing. Instead, start by mastering 2D drawing.
The cost of learning AutoCAD varies. Autodesk offers a free trial, and some classes provide software access, but after that--or if you want to have access at home--you’ll need to sign up for a subscription. Autodesk offers both monthly and yearly subscription options. Another part of the cost of learning AutoCAD is the price of a class. It is possible to teach yourself this application, however, many people find that enrolling in a paid class is the fastest and most effective way to learn. Class prices vary widely, however, a basic class may cost several hundred dollars, while tuition for a comprehensive certificate program is likely to be in the thousands.
What Are The Hardest Parts of Learning AutoCAD?
One of the challenging aspects of learning AutoCAD is mastering its many different tools and features. While you may find it relatively easy to learn the basics, this is a highly technical program and has a large number of tools. It takes most people some time to become familiar with its complex user interface, learn how to manage layers, and learn how to select and properly use the correct tool for each purpose. Ultimately though, with time and dedication, this application can be mastered by almost anyone.
You may learn more easily if you have some experience with engineering or design because you’ll have a better understanding of basic drawing and design principles, in addition to various drafting standards and conventions. However, you also need to be aware that AutoCAD works differently from other design programs, and you’ll need to learn the unique interface and features of this application.
One aspect of using AutoCAD that can take some time to master is the concept of 3D modeling, which can be difficult even if you already have some drawing experience. AutoCAD allows both 2D and 3D modeling. 2D modeling is the creation of flat, two-dimensional drawings, while 3D modeling is the process of creating 3D objects. To work with this third dimension, you’ll need a strong understanding of perspective and geometry, you’ll also need to become familiar with the various 3D modeling tools available in AutoCAD, and you’ll need artistic skills.
What Can I Do To Make Learning AutoCAD Easier?
One of the best ways to make the AutoCAD learning process easier is to enroll in an AutoCAD class. With a class, you’ll have an expert instructor to guide you through the complexities of this program and answer all your questions along the way. You won’t have to spend hours searching for answers yourself, and you won’t have to worry about learning bad habits or inadvertently repeating mistakes because you don’t know any better. An instructor can also provide feedback on your progress, which will help you understand where you need to improve and learn more rapidly.
When you’re learning AutoCAD it’s also important to remember not to try to move too quickly. Instead, start with the basics, and master those before moving on to more complex skills. For instance, it's a good idea to get familiar with the AutoCAD interface and learn where to find all the different tools that you’ll use. After that, start with some basic skills like opening a drawing and zooming in and out. When you begin using the drawing tools, it is also a good idea to start small and then gradually add more features. For instance, master 2D drawing before you move on to 3D drawing.
The amount of time you spend practicing your skills will have a significant impact on your learning experience. The more time you invest in practice, the more easily you’re likely to learn. Practice can help build muscle memory for various commands, strengthen your conceptual understanding, help you identify areas of weakness that you need to work on improving, and allow you to work more efficiently and confidently. As coding and design school Noble Desktop stresses, “Practice is the key to success with any skill you’d like to master.” It says that there are many different ways to practice, explaining, “The good news is there are endless free resources online to help you along. Search for exercises to help you memorize the AutoCAD commands, or try to replicate drawings you see on YouTube tutorials. Another option is entering an online design challenge.”
What Else Should I Learn Alongside AutoCAD?
If you’re learning AutoCAD, you’ll also need to learn the terminology and conventions associated with the specific industry that you plan to work in. For example, if you’ll be using AutoCAD in the field of architecture, you’ll need to learn about things like construction techniques and visual design principles. If you will be using it for engineering, you’ll need an understanding of the principles that govern the particular branch of engineering that you’ll be focused on. For example, in civil engineering that means learning about how different types of structures interact with the natural environment.
Revit can be another helpful skill. This is a building information modeling (BIM) application that is used for designing, documenting, visualizing, and analyzing buildings. It is a popular tool among Architects, Engineers, and Contractors. Like AutoCAD, Revit is owned by Autodesk, and many designers use the two programs together. For instance, some designers use it to create drawings and then import those drawings into Revit. Revit is also designed for easy collaboration.
Working in AutoCAD also requires soft skills. For example, you’ll need to develop your attention to detail. This involves being precise when you work and paying attention to every small detail. Other soft skills that can be useful when you’re working with AutoCAD are the ability to communicate and collaborate well with team members, and strong problem-solving skills.
Learn AutoCAD With Self-Paced VDCI Courses
The Virtual Design and Construction Institute (VDCI) offers a variety of AutoCAD training options. This school is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET). Its online, self-paced classes allow you to create your own learning schedule and include software access while you’re taking the course. You’ll also be able to get advice and feedback on your submissions and projects, and interact with peers in discussion forums. VDCI classes are approved by Autodesk.
If you want to get to cover the basics and get to an intermediate level of mastery, the AutoCAD Fundamentals Course Bundle is a great option. This is a multi-week course that starts with beginner skills like understanding the user interface and basic commands, including drawing, modifying, layering standards, text, dimensioning, and plotting. You’ll create drafting symbols, kitchen and bath fixtures, and a floor plan, and will integrate all of the information. After that you’ll learn more advanced topics including file referencing across the project data, user coordinate systems, dynamic viewing, and paper/model space conventions. You’ll create a set of CAD construction documents for a Habitat for Humanity project, including the floor plan, roof plan, foundation plan, electrical plan, and building elevations. This bundle comes with a bonus live one-on-one training session.
Another option is the CAD Certificate Program. This program takes multiple months to complete. It includes six AutoCAD units which cover basic and intermediate Auto CAD skills as well as detailing, project management, and construction document skills. In addition, you’ll take elective courses and can choose to add a specialization in Revit, Civil 3D, or SketchUp Pro. Finally, there is a capstone project. This program comes with six live one-on-one mentoring sessions and job placement assistance.
There is also a CAD/BIM Certificate Program which is designed to prepare you to use AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM in a career in the construction industry. You’ll take classes in AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM and will learn to utilize best practices, use industry standard workflows, and create professional construction documents. You can also choose elective courses and you’ll work on a capstone project, where you can apply your skills in a real-work project. This course comes with eight live one-on-one mentoring sessions.
If you want to earn an AutoCAD certification, VDCI offers an AutoCAD Certification Training Bundle. In this course, you’ll learn the skills needed to use AutoCAD in the construction industry. In addition, you’ll prepare for the Autodesk CAD certification. The bundle includes a voucher for the exam, and a free exam retake. It also comes with a live one-on-one training session.
Finally, VDCI also offers shorter AutoCAD classes. For instance, In AutoCAD Construction Documents I and AutoCAD Construction Documents II, you’ll develop a complete set of construction documents for a residential project. You’ll draft a floor plan, multi-scale enlarged plans, roof plan, and elevations. You’ll also create a titleblock from scratch, modify details, create a metes and bounds site plan drawing, work on a cover sheet, and import images and notes.