Are you curious about learning Revit but worried that it might be too hard? Of course, the difficulty that comes with learning a new skill is somewhat subjective. The challenges of learning Revit depend on factors like whether you have knowledge of basic architectural design principles, if you have experience using BIM software, and the approach you take toward training. No matter your current schedule or comfort level with Revit, there are plenty of tools available to help make learning easier than you might think.
What is Revit?
Autodesk Revit is popular building information modeling (BIM) software that professionals like Contractors, Engineers, and Architects use to perform a range of essential building-related tasks. This tool can easily and accurately model structures, systems, and shapes in 3D. It also helps users create the structural elements of a building in 3D and then annotate them using 2D drafting tools. Revit users can make instant revisions to plans, visualizations, schedules, sheets, or elevations, which are updated in real time so that all team members are working with the most current information.
One of the main benefits of using Revit is that it can unite team members working on multidisciplinary projects, leading to better collaborative practices and higher overall efficiency.
This software provides users with tools for annotating, visualizing, sketching, scheduling, and sharing work. Revit offers users tools for integrated analysis and features for uniting multiple file types and datasets, which allows them to create designs with accuracy and confidence. It also has tools for fabrication, cost analysis, and quantity takeoffs.
Read more about what Revit is and why you should learn it.
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What Can You Do with Revit?
Revit training has applications for construction projects of all sizes and types. This commercial BIM software helps professionals like Structural Engineers, Designers, Mechanical Engineers, Architects, and Contractors design, edit, review, and share detailed 3D models. Revit users can place building elements like doors, walls, and windows into their drawings, which helps their drawings be precise and exact. It helps generate floor plans, sections, details, and schedules. Before the advent of this BIM software, the design process was much more tedious and time-consuming.
Revit offers advanced analysis engines and can access performance data. It can also run extremely accurate cost estimates and help professionals monitor a building or project’s performance throughout its lifecycle. This tool’s 3D visualization capabilities can be used to create construction project documentation that features stereo panoramas, 3D views, and cutaways. Those who work with Autodesk’s 3Ds Max software and Revit Interoperability can even view their building in virtual reality.
Revit is a multidisciplinary platform that allows different team members who are involved with a construction project to share their work in real time. Architects can share the models they create in Revit with Structural Engineers and other team members as they’re updated. This not only significantly expedites the design process but also helps create a more accurate and affordable final product.
What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Learning Revit?
Each learner will encounter their own challenges when they embark on learning Revit. For most individuals, however, the Revit learning process should be straightforward and very doable if it’s approached in phases. Students are encouraged to begin working with Revit by exploring its layout and core tools. Those who come from a tech-heavy background or who have experience working with other BIM tools like Blender or who can acquire new software knowledge quickly will find this portion of the process easier than it is for others. At this phase, some learners may prefer to begin with a free Revit trial to do so before committing to a monthly or yearly subscription plan.
Once the student is familiar with the Revit layout and core features, they can build on this knowledge and try their hand at small projects. It takes most learners several months (or longer) before they can attempt to complete large projects with this tool. Students should keep in mind that Revit was designed to assist with large, complex building projects. This means that the software has a steeper learning curve for most learners than would be the case with other modeling software.
One of the most common challenges Revit learners face 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 who are just getting started using Revit and are learning to navigate its interface may struggle to do so while manipulating model elements at the same time.
One of the most effective ways to tackle the challenges of learning Revit is to enroll in a live course that provides hands-on instruction with an expert instructor in a small class setting.
How Does Learning Revit Compare to Other Applications?
Generally speaking, learning to work with Revit is considered more difficult than comparable BIM design applications like AutoCAD, a 2D drafting tool with a relatively simple interface. This is because of its many functionalities, complex interface, and overall approach to BIM. Working with Revit requires that users have a robust understanding of data relationships and project workflows. Those who haven’t previously worked with BIM software may find that they will require additional time and practice to master Revit than they would with similar software. However, once they fully master this industry-standard application, Revit provides users with a substantial advantage over the competition in terms of accuracy and efficiency.
Unlike AutoCAD, where users create individual shapes and lines, Revit provides a more holistic approach to concept-based design in which each element is designed as a component with its own unique properties. This difference can be hard for some individuals to grasp initially. Another key difference between Revit and other BIM apps is that it provides a distinct workflow for each design phase. This means that Revit users have to adapt to this way of completing projects. Some users may also find Revit’s extensive range of functionalities and features to be a bit overwhelming when compared to other CAD tools.
Why Learn Revit Despite the Challenges?
Any skill that’s truly worth learning requires time, commitment, and perseverance. Revit is no different. However, most individuals will find that the benefits of learning this industry-standard software far outweigh the difficulties of learning it. The following are just a few reasons to learn Revit, even if the process poses some challenges:
- The information used to make Revit models is contained in a single database. Each time a change is made in the model, the entire database is updated. Changes are then executed throughout the model. This process enables automation and improves the overall efficiency of the building process. It also significantly reduces the amount of work needed to make changes to different project files and maintain consistency.
- Those with Revit training can coordinate between different file types, models, and even disciplines. This software’s Tools feature helps users perform tasks like keeping track of changes in the linked model, receiving notifications of changes, and populating their base model with copied elements from the linked model. Revit users can then communicate to other team members or whole teams working on a project which items require resolution.
- Revit is a powerful tool for scheduling-related tasks and can drastically reduce the time required in a traditional workflow scenario. Each change made in a Revit model will automatically update any existing schedules to reflect these changes. Additionally, schedules can be exported from Revit, modified, and brought back in to reflect the changes.
- Revit Cloud Worksharing is a useful feature that allows multiple Revit users to collaborate in real-time on a Revit model that’s stored in the cloud. This feature allows team members to execute design changes from any location and ensures that all team members will have instantaneous access to these revisions. Additionally, cloud worksharing keeps a record of each version of the model so that users can revert to a prior version if necessary. Project Administrators have the power to decide who can access the cloud model, as well as the level of editing permission they’re assigned.
- In addition to its many other features, Revit can help Architects, Engineers, and other professionals with sustainable design. This software has features that allow users to analyze and incorporate sustainable practices directly into the designs they create. With Revit, they can perform daylighting studies, energy analysis, and material selection tracking. These capabilities make Revit a go-to tool for those hoping to create environmentally friendly structures.
Non-Professional Uses of Revit
While Revit is a go-to among professionals like Architects and Contractors for building-related modeling, not all Revit learners want to use this software for professional purposes. Some individuals may instead wish to apply their Revit knowledge to home renovation project visualization, furniture layouts, design style experimentation, 3D virtual tours of existing spaces, and room configuration planning. Revit’s 3D modeling capabilities can be extremely useful for trying out different design ideas for use in personal spaces without ever having to involve Architects or Contractors. This software can also create a model that provides a cost estimation for home renovations to provide users with a realistic estimate of how much the materials needed for their project will cost. Because Revit licenses can be expensive, non-professional users may wish to explore this software with a free trial before committing to a subscription.
Learn Revit with Hands-on Training at Noble Desktop
VDCI's BIM Certificate program offers comprehensive training in Building Information Modeling through intensive, small-group classes led by industry expert instructors. Students master essential skills through hands-on experience with real-world commercial construction projects, learning everything from 3D modeling in Revit Architecture to creating detailed construction documentation and specializing in MEP or structural design. The program stands out for its practical approach and student-friendly policies, including free course retake options to ensure mastery of the material.
Noble Desktop offers several hands-on classes for those interested in learning how to work with AutoCAD. The AutoCAD Bootcamp provides learners with comprehensive training on basic techniques for drawing and modifying technical drawings, as well as how to use this software to make 2D drawings. During this program, students design and edit a basic drawing to practice with AutoCAD tools. This bootcamp is designed for PC users, though Mac users can attend this program live online.
Noble also has an AutoCAD Masterclass. This rigorous program provides small class instruction and is a great opportunity for learners to acquire in-depth AutoCAD skills. Coursework begins with an introduction to AutoCAD basics, such as how to navigate its interface, create basic drawings, and use core editing commands. Training then progresses into intermediate-level AutoCAD training that focuses on accurate positioning and effective working methods, such as how to use templates, layouts, and styles. In the final portion of this program, learners explore advanced topics like how to work with attributes, dynamic blocks, and tables. Those interested in sitting for the Autodesk Certified Professional in AutoCAD for Design & Drafting exam can enroll in Noble’s AutoCAD Certification. This rigorous class provides students with a combination of private tutoring and live AutoCAD training.
All Noble courses are taught by expert instructors and include a free retake option for up to one year. Students can complete their training live online or attend classes in New York City.