AutoCAD Prerequisites

You might worry that AutoCAD will be too hard to learn. Many users worry they need to be a mathematical or technical whiz to master AutoCAD, but this is absolutely untrue. This guide will help you understand the best methods for learning AutoCAD and what you should study first to make the learning process easier. This way, you’ll be successful however you choose to apply your new skills. 

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. 

Is AutoCAD Easy to Learn?

While learning AutoCAD is not considered easy, it isn’t overly challenging. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be a technical or mathematical genius to learn AutoCAD. With the proper training and practice, many designers have aced the program with little to no prior math or tech skills. Once you are comfortable with AutoCAD’s user interface, commands, and viewports, you are well on your way. But remember, learning this complex software could be a bit tricky on your own. Enrolling in a guided course like Noble’s AutoCAD classes may be the best place for you to start your learning.

What to Know Before Learning AutoCAD

Before diving into AutoCAD training, here are some basic skills and concepts you should have as a beginner: 

Basic Computer Skills

Before learning AutoCAD, you should have basic computer skills to make the process easier. While the software is compatible with Mac and PC, be sure to research the system requirements for AutoCAD before purchasing a subscription or enrolling in a course. For example, Noble Desktop’s AutoCAD Bootcamp, AutoCAD Level 1, and Introduction to AutoCAD courses require you to have basic computer skills and are geared toward PC users only.

Your Preferred Career Path & Industry Trends

While AutoCAD skills are helpful in various design fields, specific training paths and certifications may be necessary for certain careers. Be sure to carefully research the job listings for the positions you are pursuing to determine what requirements and training are needed. In addition, explore the latest trends and what’s hot in architecture, engineering, 3D printing, and drafting, or in whichever field you plan to put your AutoCAD skills to work. You may just discover an exciting opportunity you hadn’t even considered.

A General Idea of the Software

Because of its complexity, AutoCAD is not a typical software skill among the average computer user. But have no fear; there are countless resources online to help you familiarize yourself with AutoCAD before starting a course. For example, you can watch video tutorials on YouTube, explore an AutoCAD seminar, or read an AutoCAD blog to give yourself a head start. You can also explore the Autodesk website to familiarize yourself with the software.

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. 

Self-guided AutoCAD programs

Students who are looking to make a career out of using AutoCAD might also be interested in their options for career focused, self guided classes. These courses allow students to learn at their own pace (with guidance and assistance from a professional mentor) and they provide students with career-focused training and job placement support. While many students find it desirable to learn from a live instructor, these self-paced classes are the perfect fit for self-motivated students looking to make a career out of their AutoCAD training.

AutoCAD Certificate Program

The Visual Design and Construction Institute (VDCI) offers an immersive AutoCAD certificate program that aims to help students become career ready within only a few weeks of training. This program provides students with hands-on, job-focused training in the use of AutoCAD and the course is designed with new students in mind, meaning that you’ll move from your first construction draft to a capstone project to add to your professional portfolio over the course of the certificate program. This program also offers students the opportunity to take up to 80 hours of electives to help them specialize in subjects including Revit, Sketchup and Civil 3D Pro. With this option for specialization and the focus on career development training, this certificate program is an ideal entry point for aspiring designers, architects and engineers looking to learn how to use AutoCAD in a professional capacity.

AutoCAD Fundamentals

Students looking for an accelerated introduction to AutoCAD and computer-aided design generally may be interested in taking this introductory course offered by VDCI. Students will learn the basics of using AutoCAD and practical skills that they can bring back to their current jobs or use as the baseline for future CAD training (including some of the other advanced classes offered through VDCI). In this class, students will get live, hands-on instruction in the use of AutoCAD, including exercises in which they create drafting symbols, kitchens and bath fixtures, a floor plan, and deliverable file sheets. While you’ll need more training if you want to make a career out of your AutoCAD skills, this course is an excellent introduction to the kinds of projects that AutoCAD professionals will need to utilize.

AutoCAD Professional

If you have already taken the AutoCAD fundamentals program or you have experience with AutoCAD from another source, you may be interested in moving towards professional level training in this advanced AutoCAD program. In this program, students will learn how to create 2D designs for construction documents that meet all of the necessary and legal standards that they are expected to follow. This course offers practical skills training and is designed to ensure that experienced AutoCAD users are able to get the accelerated training that they need in order to start using the application in more complex professional capacities. This course is built to help students learn at their own pace and class scheduling is incredibly flexible for professionals looking to develop new skills while still working.