There are several ways to learn this powerful software, but the key is to figure out which method works best for you. Learning formats include in-person, online, on-demand, free tutorials, and certification courses. Before making your choice, key factors to consider are your learning style, schedule, budget, and family and work commitments. Here’s an overview of five effective learning methods to explore before diving into your AutoCAD learning experience.
Enroll in In-Person AutoCAD Classes
If you’re the type of student who excels in a traditional classroom environment, then in-person AutoCAD classes are your best bet. The good news is that many educational providers across the U.S. and beyond offer in-person AutoCAD instruction for learners at all levels. There are many benefits to learning AutoCAD through this format, and experts agree that a structured in-person course is one of the most thorough and effective ways to learn AutoCAD. Because it is a complex software with many commands and tools, learning AutoCAD in an environment where you can ask questions and receive immediate feedback can be critical.
In addition, many people enjoy networking with other students and the face-to-face contact with instructors offered by in-person instruction. Also, being present in a physical classroom or computer lab forces students to pay attention and engage in the work. On the other hand, not everyone has the flexibility and time to attend an in-person course and may live in an area where educational centers are not easily accessible. In-person courses also require commuting to a computer lab or school, which can be expensive and a hassle for some students. However, a key benefit of in-person learning is that all required educational materials, including course books, software, and computers, are usually provided. However, since all schools have different requirements, double-check what is needed before enrolling in a course.
Take a Live Online AutoCAD Course
Now more than ever, people are opting to learn new skills from the comfort of home or anywhere they can access WiFi. A live online course often provides the same valuable benefits as in-person learning with added convenience and flexibility. Several factors can influence your decision to learn AutoCAD live online vs. in-person. For example, if you live in a rural town with no close access to learning providers, taking a virtual class can be the perfect solution to meet your educational needs. You may also choose the online route if you don’t want to deal with traffic in a busy city or the expense of a long commute. In addition, some students feel more comfortable learning in private without the distraction of other students. Alternatively, some people thrive in a classroom setting and feel more motivated and focused when leaving their homes to learn. Virtual classes also allow you to fit your training into a schedule that may already be full of work and family commitments. However, live online learning requires a quiet space where you can focus for a prolonged period—a challenge if your home is full of children, roommates, or noisy pets.
If the best choice for you is virtual learning, many providers offer a variety of online AutoCAD courses for beginner to advanced-level students. Instructors provide hands-on training via live video or chat. This interactive format lets you communicate live with your instructors and classmates in real-time and get immediate feedback on your work. Remember that online classes require students to have access to a strong internet connection and a computer, and some AutoCAD courses are geared toward Windows users only. You will also need a web camera or microphone to access some courses. In addition, you may need to purchase any necessary software to participate in the class, which can be expensive. Depending on the duration of the course you choose, you can save money by downloading a free 30-day trial from Autodesk, the maker of AutoCAD.
Sign up for On-Demand Online AutoCAD Classes
If your schedule is too tight to attend a structured in-person or live online course, an on-demand AutoCAD class is an alternative way to learn these valuable skills. On-demand courses are self-paced, and many are free of charge or available at low cost. These classes feature pre-recorded videos that students can access whenever and wherever they choose. While live online classes require you to attend at a particular time and day, on-demand courses allow you to learn at your own pace and convenience. You also have the option to rewatch the videos as many times as you need to help reinforce your learning.
You can find several on-demand choices online that cover the basics for beginners or more advanced AutoCAD topics for experienced users. Some are accessible through subscription platforms, which include a free trial of the provider’s classes, and others are available on YouTube. On-demand courses feature varying levels of interaction with instructors and students. For example, some classes allow you to email instructors with questions or join online student forums to network with peers. The downside is these interactions will not be in real-time—eliminating the benefit of gaining immediate feedback. And since AutoCAD is a complex software with many tools and commands, it may be challenging for students to learn it independently. On-demand courses also require a lot of self-motivation and discipline, and some may find it hard to stay on track.
To take an on-demand course, students need a computer with a reliable internet connection and a copy of the AutoCAD software. You can purchase and download AutoCAD from the Autodesk website or take advantage of their free 30-day trial. To run AutoCAD, Autodesk recommends a fast processor, minimum memory storage of 8GB, and at least 8GB of RAM (16GB is optimal). Please note that many on-demand courses are geared toward Windows users rather than Mac users, so ensure you have the right equipment before purchasing a class.
Many schools offering on-demand courses include a certification of completion you can showcase on your resume or post on LinkedIn. Earning a certificate is just one of the reasons why some students prefer more structured, self-paced courses provided by accredited schools rather than following along with homemade YouTube videos created by amateurs not affiliated with a program. So, before committing to a class, it’s a good idea to research online reviews or the comments section below the tutorials to help gauge the quality of the content. While the on-demand format is a solid way to learn AutoCAD if you have family or work commitments and a limited budget, the best way to learn the software thoroughly is in a structured course taught by a live expert instructor.
Watch Free AutoCAD Tutorials
If you aren’t ready to invest your time or money into a structured AutoCAD course, you can explore free online classes, guides, and tutorials. There are several resources available that provide a solid overview of AutoCAD without putting a strain on your budget. You can find hundreds of free AutoCAD tutorials on YouTube channels like CAD in Black and SourceCAD. However, be sure to watch the most recent videos since AutoCAD is frequently updated. The “comments” section at the bottom of each tutorial is also an excellent resource for asking questions, collaborating, and networking with peers.
Autodesk, the maker of AutoCAD, also offers free online tutorials and courses through its Autodesk University. Topics range from essential “tips and tricks” to industry-specific tasks and processes. The Autodesk website also has several forums and blogs where you can connect with peers, ask questions, and share information about AutoCAD. Another effective and free resource is the online forums on websites like CADForum, CADTutor.net, Reddit, and Facebook. Participating in these vibrant communities is an excellent way to connect with peers, ask questions, share information, and collaborate on projects. Forums also allow you to network in real-time with like-minded individuals and keep up with the latest industry trends—at no cost.
Several other providers and websites also offer free AutoCAD tutorials and courses for learners at all levels. Noble Desktop, Udemy, Coursera, myCADsite, and CADTutor cover 2D and 3D practice drawings, basic drafting techniques, and other fundamentals. These free training programs vary in length and are available in several languages. While learning AutoCAD from free resources online is not recommended if you’re hoping to launch a career with your new skills, it can be an effective way to familiarize yourself with the software before taking a more structured class. Although it is possible to teach yourself basic AutoCAD concepts through YouTube videos and online tutorials, experts agree the most effective way to learn the software thoroughly is in a structured course taught by a live expert instructor.
Explore AutoCAD Certificates & Certification
As you delve into your AutoCAD training, you may encounter courses offering “certification” exam preparation and others awarding completion “certificates.” So, what’s the difference? Generally, a certification is an official document issued by a national organization or software manufacturer and earned through a standardized test. Earning a certification is a more formal process and is held in higher regard than a certificate. Many educational providers offer exam prep courses for the Autodesk AutoCAD Certified Professional exams, covering all the pertinent topics and featuring practice tests.
In contrast, certificate programs focus on teaching specific skills and knowledge related to AutoCAD and are designed for learners at all levels. These courses are offered by educational providers or online platforms and can be completed in a relatively short time period. Certificates are not required for employment but can certainly enhance your resume and help you prepare for a certification exam with the training and practice provided.
Why earn a certification or certificate? Firstly, certifications and certificates further validate your drafting and design skills. And, since AutoCAD is a complex software not commonly mastered by many people, earning a certificate or certification can help you stand out to employers and set you apart from your peers.
Autodesk AutoCAD Certifications
AutoCAD certifications from Autodesk, the maker of AutoCAD, are widely recognized and respected in the CAD industry and can help establish you as an AutoCAD professional.
Autodesk offers different AutoCAD certifications depending on which career path you choose. You typically need 400 (minimum) to 1,200 (recommended) hours of real-world AutoCAD experience to qualify for the exam. You also need a basic understanding of the following topics:
- Drawing and organizing objects
- Drawing with accuracy
- Advanced editing functions
- Advanced layouts, printing, and alternative outputs
- Annotation techniques
- Reusable content and drawing management
Autodesk AutoCAD Certification Paths
The Autodesk AutoCAD Certification is known as the industry standard across all design fields. Autodesk offers several certification paths geared toward specific career goals.
There are three levels of AutoCAD certification:
- Autodesk Certified Associate (ACA)- This certification is designed for beginner to intermediate AutoCAD users ready to enter the job market or improve their skills to pursue a new career path. Requirements: Approximately 150 hours of relevant AutoCAD experience.
- Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP)- Developed for professional-level users with advanced AutoCAD skills who can solve complex challenges in workflow and design. This certification helps candidates stand out from peers in a competitive job market. Requirements: Approximately 400 hours to 1,200 hours of relevant AutoCAD experience.
- Autodesk Certified Expert (ACE)- This expert-level certification is for professionals who want to showcase their in-depth AutoCAD knowledge and comprehensive skills. Certification at this level represents leadership and commitment to mastering a new and advanced skill set. Requirements: Approximately 400 to 1,200 hours of relevant AutoCAD experience.
AutoCAD certifications cost around $200 and are valid for three years. The exams feature 45-60 questions, including multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, active screen, “hot area, ” and graphic interpretation. Exams are administered online or in-person and take about 120 minutes to complete. Autodesk also offers specialized architectural, engineering, construction, product design, and manufacturing exams.
Earning a prestigious Autodesk AutoCAD certification can help further your career and open you up to even more lucrative opportunities. Passing the exam provides employers with written proof that you have mastered the software and have the experience and skills necessary to fill a position and start working immediately. And since Autodesk continually improves and updates its software, having a certification signifies that you’re proficient in the most recent release of AutoCAD—putting you ahead of the curve in the competitive job market.
Taking the exam is also a valuable investment in your career and contributes to your professional development. Certification exam prep courses cover various advanced tools and techniques that can help you improve your productivity and speed while working with AutoCAD. In addition, Autodesk allows certified professionals to join a national database of elite AutoCAD professionals who employers use to fill positions. And if you are a freelancer, illustrating to potential clients who you have been certified by the software manufacturer will boost their trust and confidence in your work and help you beat out the competition.
AutoCAD Certificates
There are many educational providers and online learning platforms offering AutoCAD certificate programs. These courses are less comprehensive than the Autodesk Certification and allow you to gain specific skills quickly. Some providers offering AutoCAD certificate programs include Noble Desktop, New Horizons, Career Centers, NYIM, Udemy, and Coursera. AutoCAD certificate programs vary in cost and course length and are available in different formats, including online, on-demand, and in-person. Most certificate programs feature comprehensive curricula, hands-on training by industry experts, and networking opportunities. Although they do not carry as much weight as certifications, you can showcase AutoCAD certificates on your resume, LinkedIn, and other social media to further validate your skills and knowledge. For this reason, many students prefer to enroll in a course that awards a certificate, unlike learning AutoCAD by watching free YouTube tutorials.
Whether you choose to earn a certificate or certification depends on your training goals. If you are looking for a quick way to gain basic AutoCAD skills, then a certificate is probably your best choice. However, a certification may be the better option if you want to boost your professional credibility and open up more lucrative job opportunities. Before deciding, you can research the jobs you are interested in to see if any certifications are required. Doing some legwork will ensure the specific certificate or certification course you’re considering matches your career goals and expectations.