Software · 2D drafting
AutoCAD
Autodesk's 2D drafting staple. Still common in surveys, details and legacy projects, and a foundation worth having even as practices document in BIM.
Knowledge
What is AutoCAD?
AutoCAD is Autodesk's long-standing computer-aided drafting tool. It works in lines, arcs and hatches rather than a building model, which makes it fast for 2D drawings, details and surveys.
UK architecture has largely moved its documentation to Revit, but AutoCAD has not disappeared: surveys arrive as DWG files, legacy projects stay in it, and many interiors and planning drawings are still produced with it.
For assistants early in their career, AutoCAD is worth learning properly, then building on: the drafting discipline transfers, and pairing it with Revit makes you useful across more practices.
- It is still on live projects
Plenty of practices still draft and review in DWG. Being fast and tidy in AutoCAD keeps you useful on live projects from day one.
- It rewards discipline
Clean layers, blocks and xrefs are the difference between a drawing others can use and one they have to rebuild.
- It pairs with BIM
Most practices now document in Revit, so treat AutoCAD as a foundation and add a BIM tool when you can.
Test yourself
Prove your AutoCAD.
Five independent KnowledgeSmart assessments for AutoCAD, free and with no limit. Sit one in your own time and keep the result.
- Quick checkUntimedAutoCAD 2027This short assessment looks at your knowledge of using AutoCAD across a range of fundamental skills.Choose this
- Core skillsUntimedAutoCAD 2027This assessment looks at your knowledge of using AutoCAD across a range of fundamental skills.Choose this
- Occasional userUntimedAutoCAD 2027A basic skills assessment designed for people who use AutoCAD occasionally.Choose this
Open roles
Jobs asking for AutoCAD.
- ArchitectCamdenView role
- Senior DesignerCroydonView role
- Senior Interior DesignerLambethView role
- Project ArchitectLondonView role
Updated continuously from the live directory.
Partner learning
Skill up on AutoCAD with ArchAdemia.
Curated ArchAdemia courses tagged to AutoCAD. Use code ARCHSOCIAL10 to get 10% off membership.
- BeginnerAutoCAD Essentials4+ hours · ArchAdemiaCourse briefing
- BeginnerAutoCAD Architecture 3D2+ hours · ArchAdemiaCourse briefing
- BeginnerThe Complete Guide to AutoCAD5+ hours · ArchAdemiaCourse briefing
10% off ArchAdemia membership, applied at checkout.
Architecture Social may earn a commission if you join ArchAdemia through our affiliate link or use the discount code. Course videos and files stay on ArchAdemia.
Learn
Learn about AutoCAD.
- PodcastShaun 'SCB' Bryant - Online Learning, Alternative Careers and Innovation the Face of AdversityThe Architecture Social PodcastListen
- GuideOnline Learning and Alternative Careers ft. Shaun Bryant at CADFMconsultantsCPD guide from the podcastRead
Articles tagged AutoCAD appear here as they are published in Learn.
FAQ
Common questions about AutoCAD
Short answers from Architecture Social editorial guidance.
When does AutoCAD still matter alongside Revit?
Many roles still need a mix of tools. The Revit skills guide warns candidates not to ignore AutoCAD, Rhino, SketchUp, Adobe or coordination tools when the advert asks for them. Commercial practices also look for relevant visualisation and drafting skills alongside BIM. Match the software claim to the role and show project evidence, not a long unsupported list.
How should I prove AutoCAD skill on an architecture application?
Be honest about how you have used AutoCAD. A simple project example — brief, stage, task and output — is more useful than listing every tool with no context. Connect the claim to your CV and portfolio so a busy practice can assess fit quickly.
Your next step
Put what you’ve learned into practice. Explore these links, or choose what you want to do next.
I want to… (optional)
Three places to start
- JobsFind jobs asking for AutoCADBrowse vacancies with AutoCAD already selected.
- AssessmentsCheck your AutoCAD skillsChoose an assessment that fits your experience.
- GuideHow to Design an Architecture PortfolioA practical guide to designing an architecture portfolio that is clear, selective and useful for job applications.
Put AutoCAD to work.
Add AutoCAD to your profile so the right practices can find you, or advertise a role that needs it.