Course Modules

Module 1: Introduction to ArchiCAD and BIM Concepts

• Understanding BIM and ArchiCAD’s role

• Interface overview: Navigator, Toolbox, Info Box, Palettes

• Project setup, templates, and file management

• Keyboard shortcuts and workspace customization

Hands-On: Set up a basic project and explore the UI

Module 2: Site and Story Setup

• Working with stories and levels

• Creating a building site using the Mesh Tool

• Adding topography and site elements

• Setting up project location and orientation

Hands-On: Model terrain and define building stories

Module 3: Walls, Columns, and Structural Elements

• Wall tool, wall types, and composites

• Placing and editing columns and beams

• Layer combinations and structural layers

• Wall priorities and junction handling

Hands-On: Create and modify structural layout of a building

Module 4: Doors, Windows, and Openings

• Using the Object Tool to place doors and windows

• Editing parameters and custom settings

• Scheduling openings

• Creating custom openings and niches

Hands-On: Add and schedule all openings in a floor plan

Module 5: Slabs, Roofs, and Stairs

• Creating slabs and controlling thickness/edges

• Roof Tool: single-plane, multi-plane roofs

• Complex roof modeling and intersection handling

• Stair and Railing Tool: designing with rules and automation

Hands-On: Model slabs and roofs for a multi-story building

Module 6: Annotation and 2D Documentation

• Adding dimensions, text, and labels

• Creating and editing markers, sections, and elevations

• Drawing details and using the Detail Tool

• Managing views, layouts, and publisher sets

Hands-On: Document a floor plan with section markers and dimensions

Module 7: Zones, Schedules, and Quantities

• Zone tool and room labeling

• Creating quantity take-offs and material schedules

• Customizing fields and exporting schedules

• Linking BIM model data to project documentation

Hands-On: Generate room schedule and material quantities

Module 8: Visualization and Rendering

• Using 3D views and perspectives

• Applying materials and surface editing

• Lighting, shadows, and sun studies

• Rendering with Cinerender (built-in) or Twinmotion link

Hands-On: Produce 3D renderings and walkthroughs of a project

Module 9: Collaboration and Teamwork

• Introduction to Teamwork and BIMcloud

• Sharing projects across teams

• Managing changes, versions, and user roles

• IFC export/import and Open BIM workflows

Hands-On: Collaborate on a model using Teamwork or simulate file exchange

Module 10: Final Project and Presentation

• Students complete a full project model with plans, sections, schedules, and visuals

• Best practices for modeling, annotation, and presentation

• Peer feedback and trainer review

• Certification and course wrap-up

Deliverable: Final BIM model and printed documentation set