AutoCAD is a computer-aided software design (CAD) program that is a common tool within many different design industries including architecture, engineering, and product design. It is used to create and edit 2D and 3D models and drawings. In this overview, you’ll learn more about what AutoCAD is, what it can do, who uses it, and how to learn it so you can determine how to add this skill to your professional toolbox.
A Brief History of AutoCAD
Before computer-aided design (CAD) was developed, designers created drawings and models of their products by hand, using pen and paper. This was a time-consuming process and involved hours of measuring and calculations. CAD changed the design process, improving accuracy, making revisions easier, and offering a variety of visualization tools. It was a revolution in the design industry. However, the first CAD programs and workstations cost thousands of dollars and were only accessible to a select few designers.
AutoCAD, first released in 1982, democratized the design process by making CAD available on personal computers, at a price that the average person could afford. It represented a second revolution in design. It gave millions of designers and engineers access to CAD, and quickly became the most popular CAD program for personal computers. When AutoCAD was first released, it could not do everything that the expensive workstations could; in fact, it was marketed under the claim that it had 80 percent of the functionality of the more expensive mainframe computers, but was only 20 percent of the price. Consumers didn’t mind, and it quickly became incredibly popular.
Eventually, technology advanced to the point where AutoCAD offered 100 percent functionality, and this application has become the industry standard in many different fields. It continues to evolve and is updated with new features every year. For instance, new features for 2024 included smart blocks and activity insights. AutoCAD has millions of users around the world.
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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. If you plan to work in any of these fields, it’s likely that you’ll need to learn AutoCAD.
What Tools and Skills Will You Need to Learn AutoCAD?
Learning AutoCAD involves mastering many different skills and tools. If you want to work with this application, one of the first things you’ll need to learn is the specific drawing and editing techniques associated with it. For example, you’ll learn how to draw lines, how to define the boundaries of an object, how to move objects, and how to erase objects. AutoCAD is used for both 2D and 3D drawings, so you’ll need to master both types of drawing. Most people already know how to draw in 2D, but 3D drawing can be more challenging. However, 3D drawings are beneficial to designers because they allow them to more easily visualize what the final design will look like.
AutoCAD also has some other fundamental elements that you’ll need to master. One is layers. Layers are a way to organize your objects by their function or purpose. By using layers in your drawings, you can make those drawings appear less complex and easier to read. Blocks are another fundamental element of AutoCAD. A block is a group of objects that is joined together to create one single object. A block can be reused in different parts of your design, which can help save you time and maintain consistency. When you make changes to one block, all other blocks automatically change too.
You’ll also need to learn the terminology and conventions of the specific industry that you plan to work in. For instance, if you’ll be using AutoCAD for architecture, you’ll need to learn about 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.
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.
What Are the Benefits of Learning AutoCAD?
With AutoCAD, you can work more quickly than if you were drawing by hand since this application has many automated tools. For example, you can save and replicate elements. AutoCAD also improves accuracy because it makes many calculations for you, eliminating the possibility of you making any errors. Revisions are much easier in AutoCAD too, compared to other methods, which can be time-consuming and messy.
Many users like the variety of tools that this application offers. 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.
Another benefit of working with AutoCAD is that you can see what your finished product will look like before you create it. This means that you can analyze the design to make sure that it works as planned and to find any flaws or weaknesses. You can then make any needed changes before you invest a lot of time and money in making it. You can also show your designs to clients and other stakeholders to get their input before production starts.
Finally, AutoCAD also makes collaboration easy for design teams. Users can create, edit, and share drawings on any mobile device or in a web browser. This application 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. Students and educators can get free educational access to AutoCAD. 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.
AutoCAD Careers
AutoCAD is a popular tool in many different design industries including architecture, engineering, product design, and interior design. Drafters work in all of these industries, where they create technical plans and drawings, and they frequently use AutoCAD. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the majority of drafting jobs are for Architectural and Civil Drafters, followed by Mechanical Drafters, then Electrical and Electronics Drafters. BLS reports that between 2023 and 2033, jobs in this field will grow by 4 percent, which is about average. It says that the median pay for a Drafter is about $62,000 per year.
Architects design buildings and often use AutoCAD to produce detailed blueprints and models of their designs. As reported by BLS, growth in this job field will be 8 percent over the next decade, which is faster than average. It states, “Architects are expected to be needed to make plans and designs, particularly in sustainable design, for the construction and renovation of homes, schools, healthcare facilities, and other structures.” The median salary for an Architect is $93,000 per year, according to BLS.
Engineers design, develop, and maintain a wide variety of different systems and structures. Common specializations include mechanical, civil, industrial, electrical, and electronics engineering. AutoCAD is commonly used in engineering for creating and testing designs. According to BLS, over the next ten years, electrical and electronics engineering jobs will grow by 9 percent and civil engineering jobs will grow by 6 percent. Civil Engineers have a median salary of $95,000 yearly, and Electrical and Electronics Engineers earn about $109,000.
Interior Designers also use AutoCAD. These professionals design indoor spaces, working to ensure that they are safe, functional, and visually appealing. BLS predicts that over the next ten years, interior design jobs will grow by about 4 percent, with 8,800 jobs being added each year, on average. It says, “Homeowners and companies are expected to need services provided by interior designers to help with renovation projects. A greater focus on building codes, as well as the need to design spaces that meet accessibility standards, may also help to create jobs for these workers.” The median pay for an Interior Designer is about $62,000 yearly.
Comparable Applications
SketchUp is a 3D modeling application that is used to create and manipulate 3D and 2D models. Like AutoCAD, it is a design tool. This application is used in many different design fields including architecture, interior design, landscaping, mechanical engineering, and video game design. Many people say that SketchUp is easier to learn than AutoCAD. They explain that it can be more intuitive and is less likely to require an understanding of 3D modeling. However, AutoCAD offers more features than SketchUp and can be used to create more detailed models.
Revit 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.
How to Learn AutoCAD
If you want to learn AutoCAD, you’ll find a number of different class options. In-person courses are the traditional way to learn a new skill, and they remain popular. When you take an in-person class, you learn while inside a classroom, as part of a group of students. You have a live instructor and you can easily interact with both the instructor and other students. Many people find this to be the most engaging format, and they like that it provides opportunities for networking. In addition, some instructors say that with in-person learning, it can be easier to see when students need additional help. Another advantage of in-person learning is that you’re in a space dedicated to learning, with minimal distractions. However, there are also downsides to this format. One of the biggest is that you have to commute to class, which can be time-consuming, inconvenient, and expensive. Additionally, you’re limited to classes that run in your immediate vicinity.
In recent years, live online classes have become increasingly popular as an alternative to in-person learning. These are similar to in-person classes, with real-time instruction and the opportunity to interact with your instructor and classmates. However, rather than commuting to class you attend a live online class by logging in on your computer. Live online classes allow more learning flexibility and they also give you access to a greater number of class options. Additionally, since people can attend from all over the country, you may find that your class group is more diverse. A downside is that you have to supply your own equipment and software. You’ll also have to solve any technical difficulties that may arise.
Another learning option is an on-demand class. Unlike in-person and live online classes, on-demand classes are asynchronous, meaning that there is no live instructor. Instead, the material is pre-recorded and you work through it at your own pace. On-demand learning offers the most flexibility; you can stop and start whenever you need to, and you can even rewind or fast-forward the content as necessary. However, one of its biggest downsides is the lack of live instruction, which means you can’t get immediate feedback or answers to your questions. Since there is no live instructor, on-demand classes are usually the cheapest class format.
Self-paced classes are another type of asynchronous learning option. These are similar to on-demand classes in that you have the freedom to log in whenever you want and work through the material at your own pace, however, they come with more instructor support. For instance, you’ll get regular advice and feedback on your work. In many cases, you’ll also interact with classmates in discussion forums. A downside to self-paced classes is that since you have so much control over your learning, you need to have a higher level of motivation and be good at working by yourself. Additionally, depending on where you learn from, you may face more distractions.
Can I Learn AutoCAD Free Online?
If you’re researching AutoCAD, you may have discovered that there are a number of different free online resources, and you might be wondering whether it's possible to learn this application for free. There is definitely value in free online resources. You can use them to get an overview of what AutoCAD is and how it is used, learn one or two new skills, or troubleshoot a problem. However, you’re likely to discover that if you want to master AutoCAD, free online options are not comprehensive enough. Additionally, some of the free resources that you’ll find posted online are outdated or even incorrect. As a result of these issues, most people end up deciding to enroll in a paid AutoCAD class. With a paid class, you’ll know that the information you’re learning is accurate and up-to-date. You’ll follow a comprehensive curriculum that covers everything you need to learn, and you’ll be guided by an experienced instructor.
Learn AutoCAD with Hands-on Training at VDCI
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. 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.
In Introduction to AutoCAD, you can learn the basics of this application. You’ll learn about 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. Another option is Intermediate AutoCAD, which covers 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.
VDCI also offers specialized AutoCAD classes. 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. Another specialized option is CAD Detailing, where you can learn to create detailed drawings using the two dominant CAD standards. VDCI also runs a class called CAD & Project Management, which covers both AutoCAD and project management skills.
If you’re looking for a more comprehensive program, VDCI offers a CAD Certificate Program. This program takes eight months to complete. It includes six AutoCAD classes, 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.