First Lynda Training Module Outline/Review: Adobe Illustrator

     After completing the first Lynda Module I would like to take the time to say that I would wholeheartedly recommend Lynda.com to any one seeking to expand their skill set or become more familiar with any given software. I found that the lessons were very comprehensive, detailed, and some were very extensive which is one of the many qualities that has me hooked on this service. Now that I know Lynda.com modules are available to me for free during my time here at Ball State, I will be making the most of them whenever possible. I would strongly encourage anyone I know personally, to do the same.

The particular module that I completed was centered around the basics and essentials of Adobe Illustrator CS5. The goal of the module was to allow the viewer to become familiar with the basic functions and features of Illustrator in the shortest amount of time possible, so that one could create professional work with the program. In total, the module was close to three hours long. This was by no means a detailed look at the functions of the program, nor was it a lesson that would cover all of the ways in which a person could properly utilize Illustrator. It was simply meant to introduce a person to the basics and allow them to begin to feel familiar with them. However, the end of the module pointed the viewer in the direction of several other modules that were much longer and covered much more topics, while truly diving into the heart of the program. I had initially attempted one of these longer modules (ten hour module in total) but couldn't not complete it on time for this assignment. However, I will say that it is very helpful and I plan on finishing it for the second required module.

In terms of the skills learned through this particular module, I must first say that I had no prior knowledge of Illustrator, other than knowing that it renders graphics using vectors and the pen tool is 'god'. Previously, I had thought that tool to be the most complicated tool to use in the entire Adobe Creative Suite. However, this module helped me become more familiar with the tool. I am just now beginning to become more comfortable using it but going through the listen and following along with my own program to the work, helped tremendously in learning the tools basic functions. Aside from that, I am much more familiar with keyboard shortcuts for Adobe in general, as well as the basic layout of Illustrator, how to use Artboards with my work, creating and editing gradients, typing along a vector path, dealing with pixel based content inside of Illustrator and different settings used for various works such as print and screen based work.

In all I would give this entire module two big thumbs up and I look forward to completing the next one as well, in order to further expand my knowledge of Illustrator. I also plan to look into other software programs through Lynda as well as I complete my education at Ball State.