CAD Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CAD facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. In Computer-Aided Design, what does "resolution" refer to in digital design? → The number of pixels per unit of measurement, determining image clarity
2. In Computer-Aided Design, what does "resolution" refer to in digital design? → The number of pixels per unit of measurement, determining image clarity
3. What is the relationship between theory and practice in Computer-Aided Design rendering techniques? → Theory provides the foundation and framework that guides effective practical application
4. How many types of CAD are there? → 5
5. Which software, known for 2D and 3D drafting and design, is mentioned in the text? → SolidWorks
6. What is the purpose of applying symmetry boundary conditions in FEA? → To reduce model size by analyzing only a representative portion
7. Which of the way following is a way CAD does not help team working? → The software can check the design meet rules
8. What was the name of the early CAD technology developed in the 1950s? → Automatic Drawing Machine (ADAM)
9. What does 'design intent' mean in the context of parametric CAD modeling? → The strategy behind how a model is built so it updates correctly when parameters change
10. In Computer-Aided Design, what are the fundamental principles of design optimization? → Balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, pattern, rhythm, and unity
11. What is a best practice in Computer-Aided Design rendering techniques? → A method or technique recognized as superior based on evidence and expert consensus
12. What is the purpose of a wireframe in Computer-Aided Design 3d modeling? → To create a simplified visual guide showing the structure and layout of a design
13. What is the purpose of a wireframe in Computer-Aided Design design optimization? → To create a simplified visual guide showing the structure and layout of a design
14. What is the purpose of using layers in a CAD drawing? → To organize geometry by type so elements can be shown, hidden, or locked independently
15. The input devices in CAD can be divided into: → 3
16. The functionality areas of CAD application can be grouped into ______________ categories. → 4
17. In Computer-Aided Design, what does "resolution" refer to in digital design? → The number of pixels per unit of measurement, determining image clarity
18. In Computer-Aided Design, what is the rule of thirds? → A compositional guideline that divides the frame into a 3x3 grid for balanced placement
19. In a CAD drawing, what is the purpose of a title block? → To record drawing metadata such as title, revision, scale, drafter name, and date
20. Which type of FEA analysis determines the natural frequencies at which a structure will resonate? → Modal analysis
21. What type of analysis in CAD software divides a model into small elements to predict how it will respond to forces and loads? → Finite Element Analysis
22. What does an 'Equal' constraint do when applied to two lines? → Makes them the same length
23. What is the relationship between theory and practice in Computer-Aided Design file formats and standards? → Theory provides the foundation and framework that guides effective practical application
24. Which constraint ensures a point lies exactly on a curve or line (not necessarily at its endpoint)? → On Curve (Point On)
25. What is the purpose of a wireframe in Computer-Aided Design technical drawing? → To create a simplified visual guide showing the structure and layout of a design
26. What is the purpose of the 'Audit' command in CAD software? → To check the drawing database for errors and repair corrupted data
27. The process o designing consists of __________ identifiable steps. → 5
28. Which keyboard shortcut is universally used in most CAD applications to repeat the last command? → Spacebar or Enter
29. What color is typically used on a von Mises stress plot to indicate regions of highest stress concentration? → Red
30. In Computer-Aided Design, why is file formats and standards knowledge important for professional certification? → It demonstrates competence and ensures practitioners meet established standards