There is more than one way to learn AutoCAD, and every learning method takes a different amount of time. If your primary goal is to learn this application as fast as possible, keep reading for more information about the types of AutoCAD skills that you can learn quickly, and the class formats where you can learn fastest.
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 Basic AutoCAD Skills I Can Learn Quickly?
One of the first things that most people focus on when learning AutoCAD is getting familiar with the user interface. This is where you’ll go to accomplish all of the many tasks that you’ll later work on with this application, so you’ll need to learn how it works and how to use it. Elements of the user interface that you’ll want to understand include drawing tabs, the command window, and the ribbon. You will also need to learn how to create a new drawing or open an existing one.
After you have gotten comfortable with the interface, you can learn the basics of drawing and modifying objects. You might start with creating lines, circles, and rectangles. You can also put these together to create more complex drawings. AutoCAD also lets you make many different modifications to your drawings; you can erase, move, rotate, or duplicate objects. You can also make smaller edits, such as modifying the edges of an object or creating round corners.
Next comes more complex skills. For instance, you can learn to create more complex types of objects such as arcs and polygons. You’ll also learn how to work with layers, which are a way to organize objects in your drawing by function or purpose. Another basic concept you’ll need to master is using blocks. A block in AutoCAD is a group of objects that is joined together to create one single object. Finally, you may be ready to learn how to put all your skills together to create a basic floor plan or mechanical drawing. You can also learn how to add dimensions and annotations to your drawing.
Resources to Help Learn AutoCAD Quickly
There are many different resources you can use to learn AutoCAD quickly. One of the best things to do if you’re trying to learn as fast as possible is to enroll in a formal AutoCAD class. With a class, you’ll get access to a skilled instructor who can guide you through a comprehensive curriculum that covers everything you need to learn. An instructor can also provide answers to your questions and offer feedback on your progress, which can help you avoid mistakes and advance more quickly. Further, an experienced instructor can offer insight on things like best practices, pitfalls to avoid, tips and tricks, and how to succeed in a professional AutoCAD career. Much of this insider knowledge can take some time to figure out by yourself.
Another advantage associated with a class is that there will be structure and accountability. You’ll cover a set curriculum and you’ll have specific assignments and due dates. This helps you learn the correct skills in the correct order, and it also helps you stay focused and on track. With a class, you’ll be accountable to an instructor and to a group of fellow students. In contrast, if you try to learn AutoCAD by yourself it can be much easier to fall behind or to give up altogether.
One type of AutoCAD class that is specifically designed to facilitate rapid learning is the bootcamp. This is an accelerated course designed to help you master AutoCAD in a relatively short amount of time. Most bootcamps only take weeks or months to complete. They are generally focused on preparing you to use your AutoCAD skills in your career and they focus on the practical skills that you’ll actually need and include lots of hands-on practice. In addition, bootcamps typically include career support.
Free Tools to Help You Learn AutoCAD
Free tools can also help you learn AutoCAD more quickly. There are a variety of free AutoCAD resources online that you can use to practice your skills, find answers to questions, and even pick up a new skill or two. YouTube has many short free AutoCAD tutorials. The Autodesk website also has a number of free tutorials focused on a variety of different AutoCAD skills. For instance, you can get expert tips and tricks, or gain an overview of new features. Other free sources of AutoCAD information include professional networks and publications, and also online forums, where experts are often happy to share advice.
What Can I Do To Learn More About AutoCAD?
Many different schools offer AutoCAD classes. Some colleges offer classes that can be taken individually, or run AutoCAD certificate courses that are made up of multiple classes. College courses are usually more expensive and take longer to complete. Another popular choice for an AutoCAD class is a career training school. These types of schools offer shorter, more focused training programs, which are usually much cheaper than college. They also offer many flexible scheduling options including self-paced courses where you learn at your own pace, without the need to commute to class or attend a lecture at a specific time.
Some websites provide lists of AutoCAD classes that you can use to find an option that sounds right for you. Noble Desktop offers a helpful tool called Classes Near Me, where you can search for classes by subject and location, including live online classes.
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.