Becoming a proficient user of any CAD software can be helpful professionally and personally fun. Showing proficiency with a certification lets colleagues, bosses and hiring managers know that you are capable of completing tasks accurately in a timely manner. Further, a true understanding of Solidworks allows you to seamlessly pass designs to customers and suppliers and have confidence they will be able to easily understand and work with the files. Passing the Solidworks CSWP exam does not show complete expertise but it can go a long way in proving the knowledge listed above.
So how do you pass the Solidworks CSWP?
Take a look at the explanation of what the CSWP is straight from Solidworks.
Grab the sample test from Solidworks to see what you are in for. Although it only covers the first section of the test it is still highly applicable.
Check out 3D Engr's take on the CSWP
Write up of CSWP Part I
Write up of CSWP Part II
Write up of CSWP Part III
Tip to remember: Use all parts of the Software
Top Ten Tips for Taking the CSWP
Take a look at the complete list of CSWP posts.
If the CSWP-Core isn't enough for you there are more certification exams.
How to pass the CSWP Advanced Sheet Metal Specialist
The advanced exams all require slightly more in depth knowledge of the corresponding features. Additionally many advanced exams require knowledge that is covered in the core CSWP. To review the features covered in the sheet metal exam check out CSWP Sheet Metal Study.
How to pass the CSWP Advanced Mold Tools Specialist
3dEngr.com review of the CSWP Mold tools exam.
More exams reviews coming soon!
All of the above will help you understand the tests, but tutorials, training and others users are also important.
Sign up for a training course either online, or through your VAR. I suggest MyIGetIt.com as a low cost option that is robust and covers all the topics.
Get involved in the Solidworks Forums and have access to thousands of helpful tips, tricks, and engineers.
There are also tons of free Solidworks tutorials on youtube posted by helpful CAD users.
The comp.cad.solidworks Google group also is a great place to get some questions answered.
SoildJott, a product of Ben Eadie (CSWP), is another great spot to ask questions. It is unique in that the Solidjott add-in can be accessed from inside solidworks.
There are loads of other resources available, books, videos, blogs, but focusing on one portion at a time and developing a learning plan makes things much easier. Best of luck and feel free to add any advice/tips/thoughts in the comments.
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3 comments:
Hello Chris,
I'm in the process of studying to take the CSWP. Any tips on how I should set up my screen so I can see the exam and SW at the same time without having to shrink either so small that I can barely read them?
By the way, I have found your tips on taking the test extremly helpful! Thanks!
Terri
Terri,
Screen setup is easiest if you have dual monitors, or something massive (I use a 24" screen). Put the client on one screen and open SW on the other. If you only have one screen I'd suggest opening only these two applications and tiling them vertically next to each other. This will cut into your design area on SW but with some quick use of the scroll wheel you can get over that.
Be careful though if you do anything else because the testing client is FIRST CLICK ACTIVATED. That means if you click the window to make it activate, and you happen to click in the answer area, you are potentially changing your answer. Before moving on from each question make sure to double check this and then be careful when going forward and back in questions.
Other than that I'd suggest to not change your style a lot. If you generally use Solidworks full screen with other programs open behind it try that. It may slow you down a bit but you can double check things one time at the end of each question. Don't try to change to much from your day to day use, if necessary pull up a .pdf of the sample test and treat it as the client and see what works.
Best of luck.
Hey Chris,
Thanks for your quick answer! I think I will just try to get a bigger monitor before I take the test. I've been wanting one anyway.
Terri
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