AutoCAD Fundamentals: Drawing and Precision Tools

via Coursera

Go to class Write review

Details

Go to class

Provider

Coursera
Pricing

Paid Course
Languages

English
Certificate

Certificate Available
Effort

11 weeks, 1 hour a week
Sessions

Self-Paced
Level

Beginner
Subtitles

English

Found in

Part of

AutoCAD For Dummies

Overview

AI, Data Science & Cloud Certificates from Google, IBM & Meta — 40% Off

One plan covers every Professional Certificate on Coursera. 40% off Coursera Plus Annual.

Unlock All Certificates

AutoCAD remains one of the most widely used computer-aided design tools across engineering, architecture, manufacturing, and construction industries. This course introduces learners to the essential drawing, navigation, and precision-based tools required to create accurate technical designs and build confidence in a professional CAD environment. Through a structured, hands-on approach, learners will explore the AutoCAD workspace, develop efficient navigation techniques, and create precise drawings using industry-standard drafting tools. The course also covers editing commands, object selection methods, and property management techniques that improve productivity and design accuracy in real-world workflows. What sets this course apart is its balance of foundational concepts and practical application. Learners gain both theoretical understanding and direct experience using AutoCAD tools to create and refine technical drawings with precision. This course is ideal for aspiring CAD professionals, engineering students, designers, architects, and technical professionals seeking to strengthen their AutoCAD fundamentals. No prior AutoCAD experience is required, although basic computer skills are recommended. This course is part one of a three-course Specialization designed to provide a comprehensive learning pathway in this subject area. While it delivers standalone value and practical skills, learners seeking a more integrated and in-depth progression may benefit from completing the full Specialization. This Specialization is based on the book, AutoCAD For Dummies, by Ralph Grabowski. From AutoCAD For Dummies. Copyright © 2022 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Syllabus

Introducing AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT

This module introduces the essential concepts and tools needed to begin working with AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT. Learners will explore fundamental drawing commands, understand the differences between vector and pixel graphics, and gain confidence navigating the AutoCAD environment for engineering drawings.

The Grand Tour of AutoCAD

This module introduces learners to the evolution and key features of the AutoCAD interface, including the Fluent User Interface, command line, Ribbon, palettes, and InfoCenter. You will discover how these elements support efficient design workflows and learn practical tips for navigating and customizing your workspace. By the end, you'll be equipped to confidently interact with AutoCAD's tools for 2D drafting.

A Lap around the CAD Track

This module introduces foundational AutoCAD skills, guiding learners through setting up drawings with layers, creating and editing objects with precision, and navigating complex drawings using zoom and pan tools. Learners will also explore essential commands like Stretch and learn how to plot their work for sharing and review.

Setup for Success

This module guides learners through the essential steps of setting up an AutoCAD drawing, including template creation, unit and scale configuration, and preparing model and paper spaces for accurate plotting. Learners will also explore best practices for using grids, snaps, and entering drawing properties to ensure efficient and precise drafting workflows.

A Zoom with a View

This module introduces essential navigation tools in AutoCAD, focusing on how to effectively use pan, zoom, and named views to explore and manage technical drawings. Learners will gain practical skills to streamline their workflow and quickly access specific areas within complex designs.

Along the Straight and Narrow

This module introduces the foundational drawing tools in AutoCAD, focusing on creating precise geometric shapes such as lines, polylines, rectangles, and polygons. Learners will develop skills in using essential commands to draft accurate and visually consistent objects for technical drawings.

Dangerous Curves Ahead

This module introduces essential AutoCAD techniques for drawing and editing curves, including arcs, splines, and revision clouds. Learners will gain hands-on experience with point creation and curve commands to enhance the precision and creativity of their CAD drawings.

Preciseliness Is Next to CADliness

This module delves into techniques for achieving high precision in CAD drawings, including accurate coordinate input, effective use of object snaps, and the customization of user coordinate systems. Learners will discover how to differentiate between precision and accuracy, and apply practical methods to enhance drawing efficiency and accuracy.

Manage Your Properties

This module introduces essential techniques for managing object properties and layers in CAD software to achieve precise and consistent designs. Learners will explore how to adjust properties such as color, linetype, and transparency, as well as control layer visibility and linetype scaling for professional-quality drawings.

Grabbing Onto Object Selection

This module introduces essential object selection techniques in AutoCAD, focusing on methods that enhance editing efficiency and precision. Learners will discover various selection modes and how to leverage them for effective design modifications.

Edit for Credit

This module introduces essential AutoCAD editing commands, including move, copy, stretch, mirror, rotate, scale, array, offset, trim, extend, break, and join. Learners will practice selecting and manipulating objects using both command-first and grip editing techniques, while also learning how to troubleshoot common editing mistakes. By the end, you'll be able to efficiently modify and refine your drawings using a variety of precision tools.