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Getting Started with ETABS

    ETABS Logo

    ETABS is a multi-story building design and analysis software currently developed by CSI, Inc. The main difference between ETABS and Sap2000 is its ability to handle 3D models in a fast, easy and effective manner.

    Learning ETABS is a very important for civil engineers and civil engineering students as it’s a widely used analysis and design software in the industry, so learning it would be required and an asset for you even if your current firm doesn’t use it.

    The aim of this post is to present and compare between free online sources that beginners can rely on to learn ETABS, the sources stated here are full-structured courses that beginners can follow along.

    If you just want the bottom line (the road map to learn ETABS) and you don’t wish to read the entire article then go to the “Bottom Line” section at the end of the article.

    Getting Started with ETABS Online from Scratch

    CSI Website

    CSI Website is the first free online outlet where beginners can start learning ETABS online through video tutorials, you don’t have to register to have access to the training.

    Structure: The training is divided into 22 video lessons, each video lesson covers certain tools/techniques available in ETABS.

    Interface: The interface is very simple, just click on the video lesson you’re interested in and it will start right away.

    1 - CSI America Website ETABS Training

    Now the pros and cons:

    Pros

    1. Free.
    2. The training is well-structured for complete beginners.

    Cons

    1. The organization of the lessons might be confusing for some beginners.

    Verdict: This is the best free online outlet where beginners can start learning ETABS through video tutorials.

    DECODE BD YouTube Channel

    DECODE BD is the second free online outlet where beginners can start learning ETABS through video tutorials.

    Structure: The training is divided into 9 video lessons, each video lesson covers a certain tool/technique in ETABS.

    Interface: Standard YouTube interface.

    2 - DECODE BD YouTube Channel ETABS Training

    Now the pros and cons:

    Pros

    1. Free.

    Cons

    1. There’s no audio in the videos.
    2. The training isn’t well-structured or organized for complete beginners.

    Verdict: This outlet isn’t suitable for complete beginners, but it might be suitable for more advanced users looking for general tutorials to perform a certain task more of a “How to”

    Civil Engineering for Construction Informatics YouTube Channel

    Civil Engineering for Construction Informatics YouTube Channel  is the third free online outlet where beginners can start learning ETABS through video tutorials.

    Structure: The training is divided into 9 video lessons, each video lesson covers a certain tool/technique in ETABS.

    Interface: Standard YouTube interface.

    3 - Civil Engineering for Construction Informatics YouTube Channel ETABS Training

    Now the pros and cons:

    Pros

    1. Free.
    2. The training is well-structured and organized for complete beginners.

    Cons

    1. The training only covers the very basics of the software.
    2. The videos don’t have any audio as the above outlet.

    Verdict: This is a good free online outlet where beginners can start learning ETABS through video tutorials.

    Bottom Line

    The recipe for learning ETABS:

    1. CSI Website is the best outlet for beginners to start learning ETABS through video tutorials.

    Remember that the first step is always the toughest step, and the aim of this post is to provide you with resources that will help you take your first step in learning ETABS.