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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- Authorized Autodesk training center
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 Tools Are Available To Help Students Learn AutoCAD on Their Own?
If you want to learn AutoCAD on your own you could start with free resources, which can help you get a better understanding of this application and become more familiar with its many tools. YouTube has short free tutorials on AutoCAD which you can use to pick up a few skills. 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.
If you’re serious about learning AutoCAD though, you’ll likely decide that you need to take a formal class, where you can follow a comprehensive curriculum and receive expert guidance. An asynchronous AutoCAD class can provide you with a structured learning experience, but still allow you to learn on your own. Two of the most popular types of asynchronous classes are on-demand classes and self-paced classes. With both formats, instruction is not live. Instead, when you enroll you’ll receive access to a series of lessons and assignments that you can work through on your own. You can proceed at your own pace, learning as quickly or as slowly as you want to. You can skip ahead through sections that you have already mastered, and pause or rewind sections that you need more time with. On-demand classes are generally the cheapest of the two types of asynchronous courses, but with this type of class, there is usually limited interaction with an instructor. In contrast, many self-paced classes do come with instructor support. For instance, you’ll get regular advice and feedback on your work. In many cases, you’ll also interact with classmates, for example in discussion forums.
How Can I Supplement Self-Paced AutoCAD Training?
When you take a self-paced class, you have a lot of control over your own learning, but you’ll typically get supplementary support too. For instance, while a self-paced class doesn’t include live instruction, it usually does include regular interaction with an instructor. An instructor will review your work, grade it, and provide feedback. You may also be able to submit questions when you need additional help. For example, when you take a self-paced AutoCAD course through the Virtual Design and Construction Institute (VDCI), an instructor is available to answer questions within 24 hours.
Self-paced classes typically include interaction with classmates too. You may be able to message your classmates, and to participate in online discussion forums with classmates. This type of interaction can enhance your learning experience by exposing you to a diverse group of viewpoints. Classmates can also be a helpful resource because you’ll often find that they are facing similar learning challenges to you.
A self-paced class may also come with career support. For example, students who enroll in a VDCI AutoCAD Certificate Program gain access to the school’s Career Services. They can attend workshops that will help them improve their resume and cover letter, get mock interview practice, and receive help preparing a professional portfolio.
How Can Self-Paced AutoCAD Training Supplement Other AutoCAD Training?
A self-paced class can complement other types of AutoCAD training. For instance, if you’re taking a live AutoCAD class, a self-paced one can be an excellent way to get some additional practice on a more flexible schedule. A self-paced class can also be a good way to gain more specialized AutoCAD skills. For example, you could take an AutoCAD class that focuses on using this application for construction documents or one that focuses on achieving certification.
The act of learning by yourself can also be beneficial to your AutoCAD learning journey. For instance, some research shows that when you direct your own learning--as you do in a self-paced class--you actually become a more effective learner. In an article in the Journal of Memory and Language titled “On the Effectiveness of Self-Paced Learning,” researchers explain that taking charge of the learning process is associated with learning more successfully. They state, “Being an effective student requires the ability to guide one's own learning activities effectively,” and report that in their observations, students who engaged in self-paced learning performed better than students who did not when it came to memory. Other ways that your learning can be improved through a self-paced class include developing better critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and improved time management.
In addition, researchers have found that taking a self-paced class can help you feel more ownership over your learning, and give you more confidence in your abilities, both of which can improve both your learning experience and the outcome of learning. When you learn in a self-paced class, you need to learn to prioritize tasks and you’ll have to complete assignments on your own. Working independently like this can build your confidence and inspire you to keep learning. Not only that, but you won’t be so strongly influenced to learn in a specific way; instead, you’ll have more freedom to figure out what works for you, which can help make your learning experience more enjoyable and rewarding.
How to Decide if Self-Paced AutoCAD Training is Right for Me?
There are both advantages and disadvantages to self-paced training, and whether or not it is right for you will depend on your unique learning needs. One of the biggest advantages to a self-paced program is the learning flexibility it provides. When you learn this way, you’ll be able to create a schedule that fits your unique situation, study whenever works best for you, and work through the course at your own pace. Self-paced learning can be a great option for people who have busy schedules and need to balance learning with other demands. This includes working professionals who need to balance work and education, and parents who need to balance learning with family obligations.
Self-paced learning also allows you to learn from any location. For many people, that means learning from home. Whether or not this is the best option for you will depend on your individual learning style. Many people like learning from home because they don’t have to travel to a classroom, and they also find that there are fewer distractions. For instance, they don’t have to deal with classmates being disruptive or asking questions that don’t relate. Additionally, some students find it less intimidating to learn online than in person. However, others find learning from home comes with a whole new set of distractions, such as household tasks and pets.
Another factor to consider if you’re thinking about enrolling in a self-paced class is that this type of class does not include real-time interaction with your instructor or with other students. You won’t get a live lecture, and you won’t be able to get immediate answers to your questions. Some students say that they don’t find self-paced classes as engaging and that they miss the live interaction. However, self-paced classes do typically include interaction and feedback, just not in a live format. By eliminating the live element, self-paced courses are able to provide much more learning flexibility while still providing students with instructor guidance and giving them opportunities to interact with classmates.
A final factor to think about when considering a self-paced course is that because you’ll have so much learning flexibility, you’ll need to take more responsibility for staying on track with the course. Self-paced learning allows you to work at your own pace, but that means it can be easier to get distracted or lose motivation. If you have poor time management skills or lack discipline, then you may have difficulty staying focused on the course and completing it in a timely manner. However, an advantage to self-paced learning is that it can help you learn to develop these 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.