Comparison of Revit Training Formats

Revit is a commercial building information modeling software that helps Architects and Engineers create detailed 3D visualizations and project models that can be updated and shared in real time with anyone working on the project. This industry-standard tool also has capabilities for clash detection, analytics, and annotation. Once you’ve committed to learning Revit, the next important question is deciding how it is you plan to learn these skills. Most students find that they learn better when they receive guided training, and there is no shortage of available options for students to receive guidance in their Revit training. To learn more about the different Revit training options available, and what advantages and disadvantages they carry with them, read on.

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.

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

What Can You Do with Revit Skills?

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. 

Why Training Format Matters 

The training format you select to learn Revit will heavily influence the learning outcomes you achieve. Choosing between live and online training, as well as synchronous or asynchronous coursework, are decisions all learners must make individually based on budgeting considerations, proximity to training facilities, work schedules, and ultimate learning outcomes. The good news is that there are many excellent training formats available for those who are new to working with Revit, as well as seasoned Revit users interested in mastering this tool for career purposes.

Types of Training Formats

Once you’ve committed to studying Revit, the next decision you’ll have to make is which format is best for you. Live training is available in the form of in-person and online classes. Students can also study Revit asynchronously through self-paced coursework or free online resources. Keep reading to take a closer look at each training option to find the one that’s best for you.

Live In-Person Classes

Those who thrive in the traditional classroom learning environment will benefit greatly from live, in-person Revit training. Courses are available around the US in training facilities located in or near major cities. Students who attend in-person training have access to a computer lab that has Revit already installed and ready to use. In addition to benefiting from the support of other learners in the classroom, students also gain valuable training and guidance from an expert instructor who has industry experience creating 3D models with Revit. 

Those interested in studying Revit in person should keep in mind that they will have to be able to commute to and from the training facility for class sessions. This type of training can pose challenges for individuals who don’t have access to a reliable form of transportation or who live far from training centers. 

Live Online Classes

Learners who are interested in reaping all the benefits of live study but don’t want to leave the comfort of their own space can learn Revit through live online courses. Instead of having to battle rush-hour traffic or waste time and money on parking, students connect remotely in real-time with the instructor using Zoom or a similar teleconferencing platform. Just like in-person training, all learners can ask questions as they arise and receive immediate support. They can even give the instructor permission to share their screen for additional Revit help. 

Live online training requires that participants have access to a reliable internet connection, a home computing device, and a quiet place to complete their training. This study format also means being able to commit to attending classes that meet regularly, often several times a week. Those who have busy work schedules or personal lives may, therefore, find this type of training challenging. 

On-Demand Classes

If you’re looking for a flexible alternative to live Revit training, on-demand coursework is a good alternative. On-demand coursework is recorded at an earlier time and placed online. Students can decide when they wish to complete their training, as well as dictate their own learning pace. They can pause, rewind, or entirely rewatch video tutorials to maximize retention.

Self-paced Revit study doesn’t provide students with access to an instructor. Instead, it’s up to each learner to find answers on their own to questions they have. For this reason, this type of training may be challenging for students who are new to Revit and not quite sure how to find answers to questions, as well as for those who are trying to master this software’s advanced features for use at work.

Free Courses

Another way some individuals choose to study Revit is through free resources. Since no monetary investment is required, they provide a low-stakes way to explore the basics of this software or get an overview of BIM. Coursera has several free classes on Revit. Its BIM Applications for Engineers class includes six modules that help students learn how to create their own BIM models. This provider also has a beginner-friendly program, BIM Fundamentals, that covers Revit’s basic uses, such as how to work with basic modeling tools and retrieve information from models. Udemy also provides free Revit training. In its How-To-Revit (Beginner Course), those enrolled receive two hours of self-paced instruction on how Revit is used to create 3D models from 2D images.

Free Revit classes can be a great starting point for those who want to explore Revit basics before committing to for-pay training options. However, learners should keep in mind that they won’t have access to an instructor with this type of instruction. This is why some choose to start their learning path with free courses but eventually will need to transition into live training to maximize the returns on their efforts.

Depth of Training Formats

In addition to choosing between synchronous and asynchronous Revit training, aspiring learners also must select the depth of study that’s best for them. Students can choose from certificate programs, training bootcamps, and introductory-level classes. 

Certificate Programs

Generally speaking, certificate programs are extended classes that take several weeks to several months to complete. They’re available in person and online and are intended to prepare participants to pursue a career that uses Revit, such as architecture. This rigorous type of training is a great match for those who will be using Revit in their current career or hope to use this software to pursue an entirely new career path. 

In terms of cost, certificate study is typically the most expensive way to learn Revit as a stand-alone skill. However, the additional financial commitment is well worth it for most learners because these courses often include professional development incentives, such as access to networking events, resume critiques, assistance with LinkedIn profiles, or individual mentoring sessions. 

Training Bootcamps

Bootcamps in Revit or the related tool AutoCAD are another excellent way to acquire hands-on training in the small class environment. Whereas certificate programs may provide a broader scope of training, bootcamps typically focus on just one tool or skill, such as Revit. These programs often take several weeks or longer to complete and offer a condensed type of training that can be immediately applied in the real world. Revit bootcamps are available in-person and live online from many top educators around the US. 

In terms of cost, bootcamps range in price from under $1,000 to several thousand dollars, depending on the length of the program and its depth of instruction. Bootcamps are a great way for learners to devote their entire efforts toward learning Revit skills in a short timeframe without being distracted by other unrelated content or material. 

Introductory Courses 

Those who are just getting started with Revit may not be ready to embark on an extended learning journey that requires weeks or months of training. Instead, an introductory-level Revit or AutoCAD class may be a better fit. These classes are offered in-person, live online, and on-demand from many top providers. Students who have no prior BIM or Revit training can get started in a supportive learning environment where they’re gradually introduced to the software’s interface, basic features, and core capabilities. 

Beginner-friendly classes are usually much shorter than bootcamps or certificates. Some take just a day to complete. This means that participants can immediately put their knowledge to use upon course completion. However, the depth of study provided during this type of training isn’t as comprehensive as longer programs. They are often a much less expensive study option for this reason (usually several hundred dollars). Participants receive an overview of Revit and acquire the knowledge-base necessary to perform rudimentary tasks with this tool. Often, students begin with an introductory-level class before moving into a more rigorous program.

Learn Revit Skills with 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.