Learn the basics of AutoCAD and More!

Lesson 1-3 – Launching AutoCAD

🖥️ Lesson 1-3 – Launching AutoCAD

📘 Lesson Type: Self-Study

⏱️ Estimated Time: 20–30 minutes

📚 Level: Beginner (Level 1 – Lesson 3)

🎯 Learning Objectives:

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

  • Launch AutoCAD on your computer or access the web version.
  • Understand the Start tab and its main functions.
  • Create a new drawing or open an existing file.
  • Navigate the AutoCAD welcome experience with confidence.

🧭 1. Before You Start

If you haven’t installed AutoCAD yet:

Make sure your computer meets system requirements and that you’ve registered an account with Autodesk.

🚀 2. Launching AutoCAD (Desktop)

Once installed, follow these steps:

💡 On Windows:

  • Click the Start Menu
  • Search for AutoCAD 20XX (your version number)
  • Click to launch

💡 On Mac:

  • Open Launchpad or Applications
  • Click AutoCAD

AutoCAD may take a minute to load depending on your computer speed.

🌟 3. Understanding the Start Tab

When AutoCAD opens, the first screen you’ll see is the Start tab (sometimes called the “Home” screen in older versions). Here’s what you’ll find:

SectionPurpose
Recent FilesDisplays thumbnails of files you’ve worked on recently
NewOpens a blank drawing from a default template (usually acad.dwt)
OpenLets you browse your computer or cloud for existing DWG files
TemplatesAllows you to choose pre-set drawing environments (e.g., metric/inch)
Learning PanelShort videos, tips, and links to AutoCAD support & tutorials

🔎 TIP: If you don’t see the Start tab, type STARTMODE in the command line and enter 1 to enable it.

📂 4. Starting a New Drawing

Click “New” or press Ctrl + N.

  • This will open a new drawing based on the default template.
  • You’ll see a blank grid in the Model space.
  • Save your file immediately with File > Save As or type SAVEAS.

Use a descriptive name like: FirstProject.dwg

📄 5. Opening an Existing Drawing

Click “Open” or press Ctrl + O.

  • Browse to a folder where your .dwg files are saved.
  • Select a file and click Open.

You can also drag a .dwg file from your desktop into the AutoCAD window.

🌐 6. Launching AutoCAD on the Web

AutoCAD also runs in a browser—no installation needed!

Visit: https://web.autocad.com

Sign in with your Autodesk ID. You can:

  • Open DWG files from your device or cloud storage
  • Draw, annotate, and save
  • Access basic drawing tools and layers

Best For: Quick access in the field, remote work, or reviewing a colleague’s file.

🧠 Self-Check Questions:

  1. Where do you find AutoCAD on your computer after it’s installed?
  2. What’s the difference between “New” and “Open” on the Start tab?
  3. What file extension does AutoCAD use?
  4. How can you access AutoCAD if you’re on a device without the software installed?
  5. Why is it a good idea to save your file right after starting a new drawing?

✅ Completion Checklist:

✔ Successfully launched AutoCAD
✔ Opened a new drawing
✔ Opened an existing drawing
✔ Located and explored the Start tab
✔ Visited web.autocad.com (optional)

📝 Optional Activity:

Assignment:

  1. Open AutoCAD
  2. Create a new file, draw a simple rectangle using the RECTANGLE command
  3. Save the file with the name Lesson1-Launch.dwg