How to Learn Illustrator: 5 Effective Learning Methods You Need to Know

Once you have finally decided to learn Illustrator, you must wonder how to learn the program. With various resources available for you to choose from, you have different options for learning available to you. Here are the methods available to help you decide which is best.

Enroll in In-Person Illustrator Classes

Live, in-person training is one of the most traditional methods of learning a new skill. The availability of these courses will vary depending on where you live. These courses may be ideal for students who want to learn in the community or feel online learning may undermine their motivation. There is a drawback to these courses: they are often only available where a student lives.

Attend Live Online Illustrator Classes

Enrolling in a live online course to receive Illustrator training is possible if you are not located near a major city or do not wish to commute. Professional instructors teach these courses and provide students with real-time interaction, so they can ask questions and receive real-time feedback on their exercises and projects. Online Illustrator courses allow students to learn the program in the comfort of their homes on the devices that they are most likely to use. Students are responsible for maintaining their technology and Illustrator access, which can be challenging for some.

Sign up for On-Demand Online Illustrator Classes

Students seeking more flexibility in Illustrator training will benefit from these courses, which range in style from free on-demand lecture recordings to paid modules that guide them through advanced Illustrator skills. Those with rigid schedules may be unable to align with a live instruction course. Others may prefer self-paced learning.

As a downside, students will need to be more motivated than they would be if they took other courses. The lack of curriculum or schedule may make it difficult for students, especially those with less open schedules, to avoid falling behind by putting off work and training. Also, students won't be able to ask questions directly without an instructor and will have to turn to other online resources for assistance, which can be challenging.

Watch Free Illustrator Tutorials 

A few free options are available to students interested in learning the basics of Illustrator but unsure whether they want to enroll in a paid training course. You can find several free video tutorials on YouTube, or Adobe hosts live streams covering various topics about the programs. Even though these tutorials won't replace hands-on instruction, they can serve as an opportunity to become familiar with the program before enrolling in training. 

Explore Illustrator Certificates & Certification

Certificates and Certifications are the most time-consuming form of training. Many schools will offer a certificate of completion with longer courses. Employers will consider these certificates as they will set you apart from others who have not received formal training. However, Adobe does have a certification one can pursue. Students who want to show their mastery of Illustrator can become Certified Illustrator Professionals by taking a formal exam to prove their skills.