🛠️

CSWA Practice Exam Preparation Guide

Apr 23, 2025

CW8 Practice Exam Overview

Introduction

  • Presenter: Chris
  • Certification: CSWA (Certified SolidWorks Associate)
  • CSWA is the entry-level certification for SolidWorks mechanical design training.
  • Chris is a Certified SolidWorks Expert, assisting others to prepare for their CSWA.

Exam Preparation

  • Focus: Practice exam, not setup or downloading software.
  • Useful resources: Free YouTube videos for learning and additional practice.

Accessing Exam Materials

  • SolidWorks website has a sample exam and related information.
  • Essential to extract files from zip before using in SolidWorks.
  • Sample exam includes three part files and a PDF.

Practical Tips

  • Use dual monitors or split screen for efficiency.
  • Exam sections: Drafting and part modeling.

Drafting Section

  • Question 1: Identify the correct SolidWorks view type based on a sketch (Answer: Crop).
  • Question 2: Determine the correct section view type (Answer: Broken out section view).

Part Modeling Section

  • Preparation
    • Spend 30-50 hours learning the software (about a semester’s worth).
    • Unit system: MMGS (millimeters).

Creating the Model

  • Start by sketching from given dimensions (A, B, and C) and using Global Variables.
  • Sketching Tips:
    • Use tools/options for numeric input during sketching.
    • Create bounding boxes and ensure sketches are fully defined.

Dimensional Adjustments

  • Utilize equations for dynamic dimension updates.
  • Importance of checking unit systems and material properties (e.g., AIS SI 1020 steel).
  • Use Mass Properties to verify model accuracy.

Modifying the Model

  • Change dimensions dynamically using equations.
  • Remove/add features based on new requirements (e.g., cutouts, hole additions).

Finalizing the Model

  • Check all views for accuracy using section and standard views.
  • Calculate final mass properties.

Assembly Section

  • Building the Assembly
    • Import parts and set assembly according to given conditions.
    • Align parts using concentric and coincident mates.

Angle Adjustments

  • Set specific angles (A, B, C) using mate constraints.
  • Calculate center of mass for assembly verification.

Exam Strategy

  • Thoroughly check all dimensions and modifications.
  • Use section views to confirm internal features match requirements.
  • Save progress frequently to avoid data loss.

Resources

  • Additional tutorials and resources linked in the description for further study and practice.
  • Viewer engagement encouraged for feedback and suggestions.

Conclusion

  • Encouragement for viewers pursuing CSWA.
  • Emphasis on continued practice and resource utilization.
  • Channels for additional help and guidance provided.