Learning Autocad

[jshelton]

My brother works as a contractor for the gov't. His boss told him it would help him a lot to learn Autocad. He needs to learn it own his own and he doesn't have time for full classes.

What are his options? I know the software is expensive and AC is a complex program, but what can he do without taking a formal class?

Thank you

 

[lancestraz]

Get an AutoCad book.
You can pick up the basics pretty fast by just experimenting with the program.
Also, make sure you get the right version of AC. There is a regular version, a light version, a civil (I think) version, and lots more.
I'm guessing you'll need the civil version. 3D stuff is mostly done in Solidworks these days.

 

[stridemat]

and I recommend this one Its helped me out more than a few times.

 

[jshelton]

Get an AutoCad book.
You can pick up the basics pretty fast by just experimenting with the program.

Thanks, I'll tell him that!

What is the most logical way to purchase the software for just one computer?

What vendor, etc?

 

[lancestraz]

Thanks, I'll tell him that!

What is the most logical way to purchase the software for just one computer?

What vendor, etc?

You want to buy it? I think it's $4000 for the regular version ($2000 for a one year license). That some serious cash.

 

[arkitect]

My brother works as a contractor for the gov't. His boss told him it would help him a lot to learn Autocad. He needs to learn it own his own and he doesn't have time for full classes.

What are his options? I know the software is expensive and AC is a complex program, but what can he do without taking a formal class?

Thank you

Can't his company cough up and buy the software? That'd be the easiest way. Unless he is a student in which case he can get the free student version.

If he is not going to use it commercially then there is of course the "other" way… But… let's not go there…

 

[heehee]

He can get AutoCAD LT, which is around $800. Or there are night courses he can try to fit in.

 

[jampat]

Basic autocad has changed very little since Acad 2000. If he can knows anyone with an older copy they can give him, you can learn on that. Some things have changed, but the basics remain largely the same (and in some cases I actually prefer the older versions, man I miss ACAD 10, it fits on a single floppy and does everything I need of it, but it doesn't open newer files).

Another way to learn is to find a project similar to that required at work (either through work or on the internet) and try to duplicate it. Playing is the best way to learn (although a book for guidance helps).