AutoCAD Video Tutorials

AutoCAD is a valuable skill to add to your resume when pursuing a degree in architecture, engineering, drafting, or design. There are several ways to master this powerful software, and a method growing in popularity is videos and online tutorials. It’s no secret that the use of video has exploded in the online world. For example, how often have you searched YouTube to learn how to fix something around your apartment, check out a new recipe, or watch highlights of a live broadcast you may have missed? Watching videos online to learn AutoCAD is no different. This article will cover a range of AutoCAD videos, including what they teach and where to find them.

What is AutoCAD?

AutoCAD is the most widely-used computer-aided design (CAD) software worldwide. It is used to create architectural, construction, and engineering blueprints, schematics, and models. Released by Autodesk in 1982, AutoCAD makes 2D and 3D designing more efficient. As a result, millions of professionals across several industries rely daily on this powerful, collaborative software.

AutoCAD is available for download at Autodesk’s website, where you can purchase a subscription to keep up with the latest software versions. There are several ways to learn AutoCAD, as there are a variety of self-paced, virtual, and in-person classes and tutorials available. While there are other comparable CAD programs on the market, AutoCAD is known as the industry standard, and it is a valuable skill to add to your resume.

Read more about what AutoCAD is and why you should learn it. 

What Can You Do with AutoCAD?

The industry-standard software for CAD and drafting, AutoCAD enables users to create, edit and collaborate across desktop, web, and mobile devices. With AutoCAD, you can produce precise 2D and 3D drawings and models, electrical diagrams, construction drawings, interior designs, and more. 

AutoCAD is a versatile software featuring many industry-specific tools and features. It makes the design process easier through its many automation and customization tools. AutoCAD is a popular and vital tool for professionals in many industries, including interior design, project management, machining, manufacturing, architectural design, and engineering. The software allows team members to share and collaborate seamlessly on projects across their devices from anywhere. 

Why Are Video Tutorials Helpful When Learning AutoCAD?

Video-based learning is an effective way to master a new skill because it allows access to training right at your fingertips. For example, if you’re commuting to work by train or waiting for an appointment, you can simply take out your phone and watch a tutorial. You also have the option to pause and rewind the video, which is helpful when learning some of the more complex features of AutoCAD. In addition, videos are available on-demand, eliminating the need to wait for a structured course to begin when you need the new skills fast.

Another benefit of video tutorials is they provide the option to mirror the instructor and follow along with the lesson in real time, putting your training immediately to the test. And videos aren’t just for visual learners; Psychology Today reports the human brain processes videos 60,000 times faster than text, meaning video tutorials are cost-effective and a fast and efficient way to start learning AutoCAD. 

If you choose to watch training videos on YouTube, the comments section can be a beneficial area to learn. This section is not only the perfect place to find answers to tough questions, but it’s a fun gateway to meet and interact with a community of AutoCAD learners. While videos are a solid start for learning AutoCAD, remember that structured courses taught by trained instructors are the best way to learn the software thoroughly.

Types of AutoCAD Videos

You won’t have any trouble finding AutoCAD videos online. There are a variety of videos to explore, including tutorials for beginners, content featuring the best tips and tricks, and lessons covering every topic from AutoCAD layering to 3D house modeling. When searching for videos, be sure to watch content created within the last year. AutoCAD is updated regularly, and trends in computer-aided design are evolving rapidly. Therefore, you’ll want to stay on top of information from the most current sources to stay competitive. Here are some popular online AutoCAD video channels and resources:

• The Autodesk AutoCAD channel (YouTube): This is a great resource to learn what’s new in each new release of AutoCAD straight from the software’s creator, Autodesk.
• AutoDesk University Online: Autodesk hosts an annual user conference and posts informative AutoCAD tutorials from the event.
• The CAD Geek (YouTube): This channel primarily focuses on productivity-focused tips and tricks.
• SourceCAD (YouTube): A comprehensive library of videos with topics like “3 tips to get your first freelance project” and “Making a realistic tree in AutoCAD.”
• MyCADsite: For $29, the site offers an instant download of 55 lessons, videos, and quizzes.

Why Learn AutoCAD?

Creating 2D and 3D blueprints, schematics, and models is crucial in architecture, engineering, drafting, and construction. As a result, learning software like AutoCAD is a valuable addition to your resume if you hope to pursue a design career in these fields. There are several exciting career opportunities available for people with AutoCAD skills.

Adding AutoCAD to your resume will put you ahead in today’s job market and help increase your salary. It may also help to advance your career if you’re already employed. Furthermore, since all other CAD software is modeled after AutoCAD’s interface, learning it will give you a solid foundation for learning any additional design programs. It’s also a valuable skill to have if you hope to make some extra money freelancing or enhance your hobbies like home and furniture design or personal 3D printing. 

Read more about why you should learn AutoCAD. 

How Difficult is It to Learn AutoCAD?

At first glance, learning AutoCAD appears to be a daunting task. Its many powerful tools and number of commands are undoubtedly complex. But experts and the average users agree that anyone can learn AutoCAD; it just takes time and practice. Opinions vary on exactly how long it takes to learn the software. Some say you can learn the basics within one to three months, while most agree it can take up to a full year to master the software. The level of difficulty and amount of time it takes to learn the software depends on factors like your existing computer knowledge, budget, schedule, and level of commitment.

The good news is that you don’t have to be a math or tech genius to master AutoCAD. While it’s a bit more complex than the average software, you are ready to go once you learn its interface and the basics. As long as you have basic computer skills, you shouldn’t have too much difficulty understanding the program. Before you start, research your career path to ensure you get the proper training. You can also explore the many resources online to become familiar with the software’s capabilities and get a head start in your learning journey.

To download AutoCAD, you must purchase a subscription on the Autodesk website. An individual subscription costs $235 monthly, $1,865 a year, or $5,315 for three years. Autodesk also recently launched a new program, Autodesk Flex, for occasional product use via a token system. As a subscription alternative, you can purchase tokens to access the software for 24 hours at a time for around $3 per token. The type of subscription you choose will depend on whether you buy it for student, individual, or business use. Financing and free 30-day trials are also available.

Read about how difficult it is to learn AutoCAD.

Learn AutoCAD with Hands-on Training at Noble Desktop

Noble Desktop offers a variety of AutoCAD classes for learners at all levels. Whether you take an online course from home or attend an in-person class at Noble’s Manhattan campus, you’ll get up-to-the-minute hands-on training from leading industry experts. In addition, Noble’s courses are taught in small groups and include an optional free retake for students within a year.

Noble’s AutoCAD Level 1 course for beginners provides an overview of all the basics, like printing and plotting layouts and sheets, working between model and paper space, and scaling drawings through viewports. AutoCAD Level 2 builds upon the fundamentals and teaches you how to create more technical and advanced projects. 

Noble’s AutoCAD Bootcamp combines all topics from Levels 1 and 2 for a comprehensive overview of everything you’ll need to master the software. In addition, you’ll learn how to create drawings that you can use to build real-world objects and get valuable feedback from instructors in real time, whether you participate virtually or in-person.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in design, drafting, or engineering, you may want to consider earning an AutoCAD Professional Certification. This certification is industry-recognized and can help accelerate your career opportunities. Autodesk offers specialized AutoCAD certifications in architecture, engineering, construction, product design, and manufacturing. Noble’s AutoCAD courses are a great way to prepare for these prestigious certifications.