If you’re an aspiring (or current) architect, contractor, or engineer, learning Revit will help rocket your career to new heights. It doesn’t really matter where you are in your career, either. You could be starting out, have a few years of experience, or be an expert in a field related to construction, architecture, and product design/development; no matter your level of expertise, Revit can help you streamline your project management by designing and modeling buildings, structures, and individual products. If you’re interested in mastering Revit, read below to learn all about this must-have software and how you can master it quickly.
Revit is a commercial building information modeling (BIM) software by the company Autodesk. It’s generally used by architects, structural engineers, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineers, designers, and contractors. Autodesk Revit allows users to create, edit, and review 3D models in exceptional detail. Revit is often compared to AutoCAD, Autodesk’s CAD software that is also used in the AEC industry. However, while most AEC professionals use Revit and AutoCAD at the same time, these two are quite different. Revit was originally called Charles River Software and was founded in Newton, Massachusetts, on October 31,1997, by Leoind Razi and Irwin Jungreis.
What makes Revit so amazing is that it can do more than just create models of buildings, structure, and products. Revit also allows users to annotate models with 2D drawings, access building information from the model's database, plan and track a building's life cycle, and create designs that comply with codes. It comes with some pretty amazing features, too, which are outlined below:
Revit’s parametric components are highly customisable and allow for intricate adjustments. When a component parameter is modified such as the dimensions of a door or window, Revit automatically updates all related elements throughout the model. This ensures consistency, reduces errors, and saves significant time during the design process.
Revit supports various file formats, including DWG, DGN, and IFC. This interoperability is crucial for enhancing collaboration between teams working on different software and tools. It helps architects, engineers, and contractors to exchange information without the hassle of file incompatibility. This is one of the most likeable features of Revit as it helps ensure that everyone is on the same page, reducing miscommunication and streamlining the workflow.
The Revit features allow users to create detailed project sheets, manage revisions, and track quantities conveniently. Its documentation tools ensure that all project information is accurately recorded and easily accessible, maintaining organized project records but also in complying with regulatory requirements and standards. This feature of Revit reduces the time spent on manual documentation tasks, aiding users to focus more on design and innovation.
A model created on Revit acts as a shared project database. Each team member can work on different project parts, and their changes are incorporated in real time. This collaborative environment encourages better communication, reduces the risk of conflicts, and ensures everyone is working with the most up-to-date information.
Revit training can help you do many things. You can create detailed 3D models of buildings, including walls, floors, roofs, stairs, and other elements, and can manipulate and modify them parametrically. You can also create detailed and coordinated models that generate 2D drawings like floor plans, elevations, and sections, enabling efficient project documentation and collaboration across different disciplines (like structural, mechanical, and electrical) within the AEC industry. For example, you can create, model, and document mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems that will be presented in the context of a full BIM project that includes architectural and structural components. This way, your documentation will be thorough and accurate.
Revit training can also help you generate high-quality 3D renderings and virtual tours to effectively communicate design concepts to clients and stakeholders. The software helps connect you with all key partners in a project, allowing you to create easy to understand blueprints and renderings that can improve visibility, trust, and communication between you and those you work with.
Finally, Revit training can help you create detailed schedules of building components (doors, windows, finishes) with quantities and other relevant information for project estimating and procurement. For example, Revit helps MEP engineers create fabrication-ready models so they can immediately be aware of the materials and equipment needed for the production process. This improves the workflow by reducing the communication chain and helps ensure your projects are completed on time and within scope and budget.
There are many job titles that you can look for as a Revit expert thanks to its versatility as a tool. A few of these roles are outlined below so you can get an idea for the variety in applications as well as the potential fields you could work in as a Revit professional.
Architectural Designers, as an example, use Revit to develop 3D models and produce construction documents. This role demands a thorough grasp of architectural concepts. As of January 2025, the average salary for an architectural designer in the United States is between $72,000 and $75,000 per year.
A BIM Specialist oversees and coordinates BIM models to maintain accuracy and optimize efficiency. BIM Specialists are also responsible for resolving issues and upholding project standards. Revit is essential for this role, making it a key skill for anyone looking to work in BIM. You can expect to make between $72,000 and $94,000 per year as a BIM Specialist.
You could also consider becoming a Structural Engineer and use Revit to create detailed 3D models of building structures that incorporate structural elements like beams, columns, and slabs. You’d use Revit to analyze the design, generate reinforcement details for concrete components, design steel connections, and produce comprehensive construction documentation, facilitating efficient design and coordination with other disciplines on a project. Structural Engineers earn up to $116,000 in the United States, well above the national average salary.
As an Interior Designer, you could use Revit to create 3D models of interior spaces, plan layouts, and collaborate with other team members Revit also helps Interior Designers to create virtual walkthroughs that help clients understand their design, and generate detailed documentation like floor plans, sections, and schedules. As an Interior Designer, you can make around $69,000 per year.
A Construction Manager primarily uses Revit to visualize the construction process, plan construction sequences, coordinate activities between different trades, detect clashes between design elements, and communicate project information to stakeholders through a detailed 3D model, allowing for better decision-making and improved project efficiency throughout the construction phase. Construction Managers typically make around $105,000.
As an Urban Planner, you could use Revit to create detailed 3D models of urban areas so you can visualize the impact of different design choices on a project, including building placement, public spaces, transportation systems, and utilities. Revit helps an Urban Planner to identify potential issues and optimize designs before construction begins. The majority of Urban Planners earn between $59,000 and $84,500, while the top 10% earn over $105,500.
There are five main ways to learn Revit: live in-person classes, live online courses, on-demand classes, self-directed classes, and free resources. Each one has been outlined below so that you can consider the pros and cons.
In-person classes are held on location at scheduled times and offer face-to-face interaction with your fellow students and your expert instructor. If you encounter any challenging material, you can ask questions in real time instead of spending unnecessary time figuring it out on your own. You are also able to work with other students, allowing you to practice teamwork skills and build relationships. This collaborative environment is available for both full-time and part-time classes and provides structure and accountability, two things that can help you succeed.
Live virtual courses are considered the middle ground between on-demand and in-person classes. You’ll attend scheduled class times from the comfort of your own home (or wherever you choose) to learn from an expert instructor. Live online classes offer instant feedback from your teacher and interactions with other students, creating the opportunity for a deeper understanding of the coursework. These classes are ideal for students who thrive in a structured learning environment but perhaps don’t live near any in-person offerings. Or, if you simply prefer online learning, then a live virtual class could be for you.
Self-directed courses are a flexible online option for those with complicated schedules. You can attend from anywhere you choose and complete each lesson on your own time, so you can speed through easy sections and spend more time on challenging ones. But, like a live online class, you’ll still have additional support and guidance from instructors or mentors, albeit with slightly more of a delay.
On-demand classes offer the most flexibility of any class option but don’t win any awards for speed. They do have quite a few benefits for busy professionals, though. Not only can you learn from wherever you want, you can also learn whenever you want. There are no due dates or scheduled class times, so you can take your time on challenging topics or skip over ones you’ve already mastered.
These classes are ideal for learners with complicated schedules who need to squeeze their studying in around their work and other obligations. You’ll need to be an independent and self-motivated student to succeed in an on-demand class.
While not the best method for full mastery, free resources can be a great way to dip your toes into the world of Revit. If you’re unsure about if Revit is for you, free resources can be a great way to explore the basic concepts and tools of Revit before you commit to a time-consuming and costly training course. Additionally, you can use free resources as a supplement to your training course. Stuck on a specific topic? Free resources found on YouTube, Reddit, or blogs may provide helpful insight from professionals who have been in your shoes before. It’s important to note that free resources lack the accountability of a professional training course, so you’ll need to be very motivated and responsible if you choose to use free resources as your sole training source.
When it comes to the level of difficulty, the Revit learning process should be straightforward and very doable if it’s approached in phases. Most Revit experts will encourage you to begin working with Revit by exploring the layout and core tools. Once you’re familiar with those, you can try your hand at small projects.
One of the most common challenges is making the leap from traditional drafting tools and methods into working with 3D parameters. When using 3D models, even one minute change to one detail can significantly affect the entire design. Beginners may struggle to do so while manipulating model elements at the same time.
Luckily, the only prerequisites to Revit are system requirements. You’ll want to make sure your computer is equipped with 2.5 GHz or higher as Autodesk® Revit® software products will use multiple cores for many tasks. Aside from these technological requirements, it can be helpful to have experience with architectural theories and concepts such as spatial relationships, design principles, construction methods, and building components. Additionally, any experience with any form of CAD software will serve you well.
When it comes to cost, you’ll find that pricing may vary widely depending on the type and depth of the class you attend. Online platforms like Udemy or Coursera might offer more affordable options compared to dedicated training centers or professional organizations, but these classes may lack the robust curriculum you’d find in other programs. Similarly, basic introductory courses are usually cheaper than in-depth programs, and courses designed specifically to prepare for Autodesk Revit certification exams may be more expensive. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the course you choose.
VDCI is a nationally-accredited educational institution that tailors its courses to the needs of aspiring professionals in the AEC (architecture, engineering, construction) industry. They offer affordable tuition, top-notch curriculum, and self-paced courses that provide the flexibility to learn on your own schedule.
Consisting of two Revit classes, this VDCI program is designed to develop your understanding of Revit and its involvement in Building Information Modeling (BIM). You’ll be introduced to Revit and how information is interrelated throughout the Revit (BIM) model to design 3D models, generate 2D architectural drawings and create 3D perspective views. You’ll master Revit with the help of an expert instructor and hands-on, real-world, project-based training.
This VDCI program is geared towards students who want to pursue careers in the Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) fields. You’ll begin with the fundamentals of Revit and BIM and progress into the MEP-specifics of using Revit MEP tools in the BIM process. These courses will also prepare you to take the Revit MEP Certified User Certification Exam. You will learn the skills and workflows which are practiced professionally by MEP engineers and support staff.
This bundle from VDCI helps to prepare you for taking the Revit Architecture Certification Exam. Start at the beginning. You’ll learn how information is related throughout the Revit (BIM) model. This course examines how Revit users design 3D models that simultaneously document the project and generate 2D architectural drawings containing floor plans, elevations, and 3D perspective views.
Also from VDCI, this training is geared towards students who want to pursue careers in the Structural Engineering field. You’ll begin with the fundamentals of Revit and BIM, then progress into the structural specifics of using Revit Structure in the BIM process. You will also learn the professional workflows used in structural engineering offices. This series of courses will also prepare you for the Revit Certified User Certification Exam.
Learn how to use Revit software to create detailed 3D building models with integrated information resources, helping you streamline construction planning tasks and collaborate across disciplines in the industry.
With training in Autodesk Revit, you can enhance your skills in creating 3D models for architectural designs and construction projects, enabling you to collaborate with professionals in the industry and streamline project workflows efficiently.
You will learn to create precise building designs and schedules using Revit software, gaining skills in architectural drawing, technical documentation, Building Information Modeling (BIM), and engineering applications to enhance your professional expertise.
Mastering Revit allows you to transition from basic drafting to creating interconnected virtual buildings, enhancing your design skills for real-world applications in architecture, engineering, and construction.
Revit training equips you with the essential skills to create precise 3D models for architecture, engineering, and construction projects, improving efficiency and accuracy in design processes while enabling collaborative project work.
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Gain expertise in Building Information Modeling (BIM) with Revit Architecture to create 3D models for commercial building projects. This hands-on program teaches you the technical skills and workflows for BIM while preparing you for a successful career.
Build a strong foundation in Revit Architecture and explore its role in Building Information Modeling (BIM). This course introduces you to the basics of 3D modeling, architectural design, and project documentation.
Develop expertise in Revit Architecture and prepare for the Autodesk Certifed User Exam in Revit with this comprehensive course. From beginner to advanced, you’ll master the skills to create 3D models and detailed construction documents using Revit.
Learn Revit Structure to create detailed 3D structural models and seamlessly integrate them into the BIM workflow. This course prepares you for the Autodesk Certified Professional in Revit for Structural Design and helps build a strong foundation in structural engineering design.