AutoCAD, Inventor or Solid works which is better for a beginner?

I am a fresh graduate of mechanical engineering and wish to go for a special training on design software. Which of the above software do I start with and why? Thanks

 

I start people on AutoCAD in order to get them familiar with the way that CAD works. It also helps you if you need to do quick layout or concept designs using known sizes.

After that I think Inventor is easier to learn so we move to it, before heading to SolidWorks. There are some functions that I prefer the way that Inventor handles them, and some that I like in SolidWorks better.

Another benefit with learning AutoCAD/Inventor is that you can get student copies free. http://students.autodesk.com

Which one you "should" start with depends on what the local industry is using. If everyone is using SolidWorks you had better know it.

The key thing that I emphasize to my students is to understand what you want to do, and to get used to how CAD functions. this will allow you to make the transition between released, and different packages.

I have AutoCAD, Inventor, and some SolidWorks videos at http://youtube.com/jthornj

 

I agree with you on starting with autocad for being familiar with 2d drawing, because this is still a big part of the industries around the world, i have worked alot with 3D but i also have to edit 2d drawings. Also make flow schemes and so on. I disagree alittle about inventor being easier. I went from inventor to Solidworks and still use them both. But i also say to people that ask me about comparison of these 2 softwares is that what you do in inventor with 2-3 clicks you use 1-2 clicks in Solidworks with the mouse. So in a whole work day these could be alot of clicks. Just my opinion.

But they are very similar, and if you know inventor you easily can use Solidworks.

 

Thank you all, I really really appreciate. I have the basic knowledge of AutoCAD but not yet certified in any design application. So, I want to register for any of them that would give me a better chance of learning the rest on my own. I felt like getting certified in AutoCAD would give me a better chance and coverage to apply for design/draftsman's jobs. Or do I need proper certifications in all the design softwares to call myself a qualified draft man? Thanks a lot.

 

I would tend to agree with mrroy76 and recommend Solidworks which in my opinion it is much more intuitive to use and learn.
With regards to being a draftsman it takes a lot more than just learning the software. I have seen many Cad users that are very good working with 3D cad but have no idea how to create a quality drafted 2D drawing.

 

You want to learn the CAD package that is most commonly used by the types of companies where you would like to be employed.

One thing concerns me. You say you are a recent graduate of mechanical engineering but you want to be a qualified draftsman.

You should be focussing on what it takes to be a good engineer, and that includes drafting but is far more.

 

Every software has its own advantage and limitations too; its upto you to decide for learning based on current industry requirement.
Well AutoCAD is like a software which every mechanical engineer should know but its also important to make one 3D software of your expertise.
I also recommend to go with Solidworks as per its increasing demand in industry. Its very user friendly as compared to others.
I would suggest after learning solidworks go with CSWA-Solidworks certification exams to get more chances of job.

 

Thank you all, I think I should go for Solidworks because I have the basic knowledge of AutoCAD and can always improve on my own. And also believe from your suggestions that Solidworks is quit important in mechanical design and also simple to understand. Mr. Erich, yes I am but have special interest for design/drafting. Thank you

 

I would suggest not bothering with Autocad as it's pretty much obsolete. Yes, it's still sold, and still used by companies that have a sizeable investment in old drawings but it's hopelessly cumbersome by modern standards. Between Inventor and Solidworks, SWX is arguably a better product but Inventor is used by a lot of companies that used to use Autocad. As said above, the one to learn is what is most commonly used in the industry you want to work in. Really, though, it doesn't matter all that much... once you know one CAD system it's pretty easy to pick up another one even without formal training as long as somebody (another engineer) is there to help you out. And companies expect to have to train entry level engineers anyway.

 

Dana you are right and on the point. Thanks.