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Ian Nichols

Over the course of 18 hours of narrated video tutorials, let Ian Nichols (an Autodesk Expert Elite) teach you all the fundamentals of Autodesk's BIM Software. Everything you need to know to be productive with Revit is covered step-by-step. Not only are all the main tools explained and demonstrated, the fundamental concepts behind them are discussed.

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What's inside

Learning objective

Have a working knowledge of all the fundamentals of the software

Syllabus

Introduction: Download your Ebook
Download your Ebook
Interface & Navigation

Understand the main components of the Launch Screen. Understand all the key options of the Application Menu

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We take a look at each Menu on the Ribbon and discuss what the tools are used forW

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides a comprehensive introduction to Revit, which is essential for professionals in architecture, construction, and design
Covers the fundamentals of BIM software, which is increasingly becoming the industry standard for building design and documentation
Includes narrated video tutorials, which can be helpful for visual learners who prefer step-by-step guidance
Explores parameters, which are the backbone of Revit and essential for creating and managing intelligent building models
Requires learners to download an ebook, which may require additional steps and resources beyond the video tutorials

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Reviews summary

Complete introduction to autodesk revit architecture

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation for absolute beginners diving into Autodesk Revit Architecture. Many students praise the step-by-step approach and the instructor's ability to explain concepts in a clear and understandable manner. The course is frequently described as comprehensive for fundamental tools and workflows, making complex software feel accessible. Some reviewers mention it serves as an excellent starting point before moving on to more advanced topics or specific project types. A few comments suggest being aware that the software interface might have evolved slightly since the course was created, a potential warning for users on the very latest versions.
Videos might use an older Revit version.
"Some parts of the interface look slightly different in the newest Revit."
"While the concepts are the same, the visual layout varies a bit."
"Worth noting that the course uses a specific version, so be aware if using a much newer one."
Provides a strong base for using Revit.
"It covers all the essential fundamental tools you need to get started."
"I feel I have a solid understanding of the core Revit concepts now."
"The syllabus covers a good range of topics for a beginner's course."
Concepts explained in an easy-to-grasp way.
"Ian Nichols is a fantastic instructor and explains things very clearly."
"His explanations are easy to follow even when dealing with complex ideas."
"The instructor's knowledge and teaching style are top-notch."
Methodical guidance makes learning easy.
"The instructor explains everything step-by-step which was very helpful."
"I really appreciated the methodical way the topics were covered."
"Following along with the lessons was straightforward and clear."
Ideal for those starting with Revit.
"This course is perfect for absolute beginners."
"I had no prior Revit knowledge, and this course made it easy to start."
"If you are new to Revit, this is an excellent introduction."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Complete Beginners Guide to Autodesk Revit Architecture with these activities:
Review Architectural Terminology
Familiarize yourself with common architectural terms to better understand the concepts and tools within Revit.
Browse courses on Architectural Design
Show steps
  • Find a glossary of architectural terms.
  • Review the definitions of key terms related to building components and design principles.
  • Create flashcards or a quiz to test your understanding.
Review 'Architectural Graphics' by Francis D.K. Ching
Improve your understanding of architectural representation, which is essential for effectively using Revit to create and communicate designs.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Architectural Graphics' by Francis D.K. Ching.
  • Study the chapters on orthographic projections, paraline drawings, and perspective drawings.
  • Practice sketching architectural elements based on the book's examples.
Revit Interface Navigation Exercises
Practice navigating the Revit interface to become more efficient and comfortable with the software.
Show steps
  • Open a sample Revit project.
  • Practice using the View Cube, Steering Wheel, and Zoom tools to navigate the model.
  • Experiment with different view settings, such as visual styles and detail levels.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Document Revit Shortcuts
Create a personal cheat sheet of Revit keyboard shortcuts to improve workflow efficiency.
Show steps
  • Identify the Revit keyboard shortcuts.
  • Organize the shortcuts by category (e.g., Modify, View, Draw).
  • Create a document or spreadsheet listing the shortcuts and their functions.
Model a Simple Building in Revit
Apply the concepts learned in the course by modeling a simple building from scratch in Revit.
Show steps
  • Choose a simple building design (e.g., a small house or office).
  • Create levels and grids to define the building's structure.
  • Model the walls, doors, windows, and roof using Revit's tools.
  • Add annotations and dimensions to document the design.
Review 'Mastering Autodesk Revit' by Robert Yori
Deepen your understanding of Revit's advanced features and workflows to become a more proficient user.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Mastering Autodesk Revit'.
  • Explore the chapters on advanced modeling techniques, such as families and phasing.
  • Try implementing some of the book's examples in your own Revit projects.
Explore Advanced Revit Tutorials
Seek out and follow advanced Revit tutorials online to further refine your skills and explore specialized topics.
Show steps
  • Search for Revit tutorials on topics such as creating custom families, using Dynamo, or working with complex geometry.
  • Follow the tutorials step-by-step, paying attention to the techniques and workflows used.
  • Apply what you learn to your own Revit projects.

Career center

Learners who complete The Complete Beginners Guide to Autodesk Revit Architecture will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Building Information Modeling Technician
A Building Information Modeling Technician uses software to create and manage digital representations of physical and functional characteristics of buildings. This course helps build a foundation in the fundamentals of Autodesk Revit, a key piece of software in BIM, by giving experience with its interface, navigation, and tools. By covering core concepts such as parameters, levels, and views, it offers a strong starting point for understanding how building models are created. An individual seeking a career as a Building Information Modeling Technician should take this course to learn the practical digital skills required to be successful.
Architectural Drafter
An Architectural Drafter creates technical drawings and plans for buildings and structures, often using software like Autodesk Revit. This course helps individuals get a firm grip on the software's fundamentals, beginning with its interface and navigation and progressing through modeling elements, views, and annotation. This course may be useful because it covers topics such as floors, walls, roofs, stairs, and drafting views which are essential for creating detailed architectural drawings. Aspiring Architectural Drafters should take this course to gain the practical software skills they need to produce accurate, complete, and professional drawings.
Architectural Designer
An Architectural Designer develops designs for buildings and structures, often using software to create models and plans. This course may be useful because it provides a strong foundation in the core concepts and tools of Autodesk Revit, a commonly used program in architectural design. The course covers modeling, views, and annotation, which helps designers create detailed visual representations of their designs. This course can help an Architectural Designer by giving a better understanding of the software used to create realistic models and presentations.
Interior designer
An Interior Designer plans and designs interior spaces of buildings, and this often includes using design software to create models and drawings. This course may be useful because it introduces the fundamentals of Autodesk Revit, and it covers topics that are relevant to interior design. These topics include creating floor plans, using components for furniture and fixtures, and working with views. An aspiring Interior Designer may benefit from a course that provides a basic understanding of the software and its abilities.
Construction Estimator
A Construction Estimator calculates the costs associated with building projects, and this requires them to understand building plans and materials. This course may be useful because it teaches how to create or use digital models, which can be used to make more accurate estimates. A Construction Estimator might use the information in the course to help understand how plans are structured. By covering topics like views, schedules, and drafting, the course can help a Construction Estimator better interact with project plans.
Project Manager
A Project Manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of construction projects including budgeting and scheduling. This course may be useful because it introduces some of the core software used in construction today. The course may be useful to a Project Manager who is interested in understanding how building plans are generated. A Project Manager can use the information to stay informed of how technology impacts the workflow of their projects.
Civil Engineer
A Civil Engineer designs and manages construction projects that typically involve large infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, tunnels, and water systems. This course may be useful because it teaches how to use Autodesk Revit, which can be used to understand building design and its documentation. A Civil Engineer may use this training to better understand the structural and architectural details of building projects. Though Revit is less focused on civil structures and more on buildings, the understanding of the workflows and model views may be useful.
Facilities Manager
A facilities manager is responsible for the maintenance and operations of buildings. This course may be useful because it covers the basics of Revit. A Facilities Manager may use this training to better understand the plans of their buildings. Being aware of the software and workflows used for creating plans may be a useful component for a Facilities Manager who is involved in any building renovation or repair projects.
Real Estate Developer
A Real Estate Developer manages projects from land acquisition through construction. This course may be useful because it provides basic knowledge of Autodesk Revit, a software that is used to create building plans in the industry. A Real Estate Developer may find this information beneficial to understanding project plans. Though it does not directly correlate with the job of a Real Estate Developer, understanding some of the technologies in the industry can help one develop a better perspective.
Construction Inspector
A Construction Inspector examines construction sites and verifies that the materials and work meet the standards of the project. This course may be useful because it introduces the concepts of how a building plan is created in the industry. A Construction Inspector may use this information to better understand how a plan is constructed in the digital realm. This information can help them more easily see issues that might exist between the plan and the building itself.
Urban Planner
An Urban Planner develops plans for the development of cities and neighborhoods. This course may be useful because it introduces software used in the field of architecture. While an Urban Planner may not use Revit directly, they may be required to interact with designers who do. Understanding the software at its most basic level may be helpful for an aspiring Urban Planner.
Landscape Architect
A Landscape Architect designs outdoor spaces, and this may include hardscapes, landscapes, and water features. This course may be useful because it may help a Landscape Architect better understand the software used by other design professionals. This course can provide a basic understanding of how buildings are designed, even if landscape design is not its primary focus. This may help Landscape Architects collaborate with architects and other construction professionals.
Sustainability Consultant
A Sustainability Consultant advises businesses and organizations on sustainable practices, including green building design. This course may be useful because it introduces the concepts and tools used in digital building construction. A Sustainability Consultant might find this training useful in understanding the digital tools that are available when designing sustainable building options. The course may also be helpful for understanding building parameters and design options.
Real Estate Agent
A Real Estate Agent helps clients buy, sell, and rent properties. This course may be useful to a Real Estate Agent who wants to better understand the floor plans of a building. The course can familiarize one with how a plan is generated and read. Though it does not directly relate to the job of a Real Estate Agent, it may help one better navigate building information.
Interior Stylist
An Interior Stylist works in the aesthetic arrangement of furniture and decor in a building. This course may be useful because it introduces the tools used in designing with furniture and fixtures. Though an Interior Stylist does not typically produce digital plans, they may find it useful to understand how those plans are generated. This course can help a prospective Interior Stylist understand the technical aspects of creating a building plan.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in The Complete Beginners Guide to Autodesk Revit Architecture.
Comprehensive guide to Autodesk Revit, covering a wide range of topics from basic modeling to advanced techniques. It provides in-depth explanations of Revit's features and workflows, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced users. This book is often used as a reference by industry professionals.
Provides a strong foundation in architectural drawing and representation techniques. It covers various methods of visualizing and communicating architectural designs, which are essential for effectively using Revit. While not Revit-specific, it enhances your ability to translate design ideas into digital models. This book is commonly used in architecture schools.

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