You just need to learn basic commands ,or at least you need to follow the guidelines that are suggested by software itself while working with new features, ‘patiently’!. Here what I use to do when assigned with multiple kinds of projects. 1. Preparation of timeline per project, meanwhile learning and utilising new features then and there in project so that for the next ones I am already prepared with new tools! For first time ,even if I fail 2-3 times, I didn’t give up until I get it right, that wasted time was actually an investment for next projects. While learning, I use to monitor the time. The more you try, you keep getting better.

One of the approach is to try to automate your CAD activities using Programming. For example: You can automate CAD activities in Inventor using ILogic or Inventor VBA. Similarly you can automate using DriveWorks in SolidWorks tool.

When handling multiple CAD projects you need to improvise and give yourself the time to improve your skill. Setting out dates and time for specific project may help you optimize time effectively. You should also seek help form colleagues and teammates if the CAD project is overwhelming and needs to be done before the deadline.

Working on multiple CAD projects, understand working pattern, make it simple, set small milestones, after every milestone try new feature useful to fast, automate your work. That's how you learn good features and use it simultaneously to test them. This is my personal strategy and helped me alot. Any CAD enthusiastic can relate this.

1. Consider CAD as only a language to communicate the idea 2. If you have proper idea to design and may be at some point you wont be able to materialise the design with known options, then you can search or seek for some unknown options which help in realising your idea. Until then its better not to venture into exploration in between projects 3. Don’t consider CAD as core technical skill rather consider it as a technical soft skill.. much like any communication languages… 4. We learn design and ideation then we learn CAD is better.

Interesting, I can give best answer regarding this issue. Mainly, I consider time management. I use pomodoro timer technique to learn new things. Let I brief on this technique. Every 30 minutes, 25 minutes I work on my project, and remaining 5 minutes Instead of taking a break I learn these new things. I know within the shorten time I couldn’t. But I follow the consistence way.

1. Set Prioritized Micro-Learning Sessions Dedicate 15–20 minutes daily to focus on a specific CAD feature. Use tools like Pomodoro timers to stay consistent. 2. Integrate Learning with Active Projects Identify areas in your current projects where new features can be applied. Practice learning by doing, as it solidifies skills. 3. Utilize Downtime Strategically Turn idle moments (e.g., during commutes or breaks) into productive learning sessions by watching tutorials, listening to podcasts, or reading CAD-related articles. 4. Leverage Pre-Planned Templates and Workflows Create reusable templates or automate repetitive tasks to save time, leaving room for learning without affecting deadlines.

Balancing multiple CAD projects with tight deadlines is tough, but staying updated on new features can boost long-term efficiency. 1️⃣ Integrate Learning Into Work: Focus on features that solve current challenges in your projects, learning as you apply. 2️⃣ Microlearning: Dedicate 10–15 minutes daily to explore tutorials, webinars, or forums. 3️⃣ Plan Ahead: Use slower project phases to dive deeper into advanced tools or workflows. 4️⃣ Leverage Team Knowledge: Collaborate with colleagues who’ve mastered features to learn faster. Continuous learning doesn’t have to disrupt—it can enhance your work.

Juggling multiple CAD projects with tight deadlines requires careful time management to prioritize learning new features. I integrate learning into my workflow by focusing on tools or techniques directly applicable to my current tasks, ensuring immediate benefits. Allocating small, consistent time blocks for skill development, such as during breaks or lighter workload periods helps me stay updated without compromising project timelines. This approach not only enhances efficiency but also keeps me competitive in delivering high quality designs.