Adobe Certified Associate in Graphic Design & Illustration Using Adobe Illustrator Training Course.
Introduction
The Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) certification in Graphic Design & Illustration Using Adobe Illustrator is an industry-recognized credential that validates your skills in graphic design and digital illustration. This 5-day intensive training course is designed to provide participants with a deep understanding of Adobe Illustrator’s powerful features, enabling them to create vector graphics, illustrations, and designs for print and digital media. The course covers the fundamentals of Adobe Illustrator, advanced tools and techniques, and industry best practices. By the end of the course, participants will be well-prepared to pass the ACA exam and apply their skills in real-world design projects.
Course Objectives
By the end of this training, participants will:
- Understand the key tools and features of Adobe Illustrator and how to use them effectively in design projects.
- Learn to create professional-quality vector graphics, logos, illustrations, and artwork.
- Develop skills in layout design, typography, and color theory in the context of digital illustration.
- Gain proficiency in creating and preparing designs for various media, including print and digital formats.
- Be fully prepared to take the Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) exam in Graphic Design & Illustration Using Adobe Illustrator.
Who Should Attend?
This course is ideal for:
- Graphic designers, illustrators, and artists looking to deepen their knowledge of Adobe Illustrator.
- Beginners or intermediate users of Adobe Illustrator who want to prepare for the ACA certification exam.
- Professionals seeking to enhance their design skills for creative projects in various industries, including print, digital media, and advertising.
- Anyone interested in gaining industry-recognized certification in graphic design and illustration.
Day 1: Introduction to Adobe Illustrator and Basic Tools
Session 1: Getting Started with Adobe Illustrator
- Introduction to Adobe Illustrator workspace: Panels, tools, and preferences
- Overview of the Illustrator interface: Artboards, navigation, and document setup
- Introduction to vector graphics vs. raster graphics
- Basic drawing tools: Pen tool, pencil tool, and brush tool
Session 2: Basic Shapes and Object Management
- Creating and manipulating basic shapes (rectangles, ellipses, polygons)
- Using the selection and direct selection tools
- Combining and subtracting shapes with the Pathfinder tool
- Grouping, aligning, and distributing objects
- Working with layers and layer management
Day 2: Advanced Drawing Techniques and Color Management
Session 3: Working with Paths and Anchor Points
- Understanding paths, anchor points, and segments
- Using the Pen tool for precise drawing and editing paths
- Curvature tool and Bezier curves
- Modifying paths and anchor points with the Direct Selection tool
- Using the Convert Anchor Point tool for path editing
Session 4: Color Theory and Color Management in Illustrator
- Understanding color modes: RGB vs. CMYK
- Working with the Color Picker and Color Guide
- Creating and applying gradients
- Managing swatches and color libraries
- Understanding the use of Pantone colors in design projects
Day 3: Typography and Text Effects
Session 5: Working with Text in Illustrator
- Understanding type tools: Point Type vs. Area Type
- Formatting text: Fonts, sizes, leading, and tracking
- Applying and editing text styles and effects
- Working with character and paragraph styles
- Converting text to paths for custom typography
Session 6: Advanced Text Effects and Techniques
- Creating and manipulating text paths (text on a path)
- Using the Type on a Path tool for curved text
- Applying text effects and transforming text
- Exploring type as a design element: Typography in logos, posters, and ads
Day 4: Working with Layers, Images, and Advanced Tools
Session 7: Advanced Layer Techniques
- Using multiple artboards and managing complex documents
- Grouping and organizing objects with layers
- Layer effects: Opacity masks, clipping masks, and opacity settings
- Working with layer styles and blending modes
Session 8: Integrating Images into Illustrator Projects
- Importing and embedding raster images
- Tracing images with the Image Trace tool
- Using the Clipping Mask tool to incorporate images into vector artwork
- Working with transparency and gradients on images
Day 5: Creating Projects, Finalizing Designs, and Exam Preparation
Session 9: Creating a Logo or Illustration Project
- Applying skills to create a professional-quality logo or illustration
- Combining shapes, text, and images into a cohesive design
- Refining your artwork and preparing it for output
- Working with effects and 3D tools to add depth and dimension to your designs
Session 10: Exporting and Preparing Files for Print and Web
- Exporting artwork for various formats: .AI, .EPS, .PDF, .JPG, .PNG
- Preparing files for printing: CMYK, bleed, crop marks, and resolution considerations
- Preparing designs for the web: RGB color mode, resolution, and file types
- Using artboards and saving multiple assets in one document
Session 11: ACA Exam Review and Preparation
- Review of key topics covered throughout the course
- Practice exam questions for ACA certification
- Exam-taking strategies: Time management, question formats, and study tips
- Final Q&A session to address participant concerns and ensure exam readiness