This learning path contains 12 individual training video topics covering Model Based Definition fundamentals. This supplemental training will provide a great study course for getting ready to take the exam. For additional CSWP-MBD Certification preparation, please be sure to check out the My.SOLIDWORKS.com learning path.
CSWP - MBD
A complete guide on how to prepare for the CSWP-Model Based Definition certification.
Introduction
Welcome to the next exciting trail along your SOLIDWORKS certification journey. This time, we tackle 3D Product Manufacturing Information. 3D PMI, inside SOLIDWORKS, is referred to as model-based definition (MBD).
What is the CSWP-MBD Exam?
The Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional Model Based Definition Exam is an advanced skills test that proves a user knows their way around the MBD functionality of the software, and their ability to create accurate 3D PMI Documentation. It is a mix of multiple-choice and hands-on challenges focusing on annotations, DimXpert dimensions and features, along with 3D views and 3D PDF files.
"I was provided all the resources needed to complete my Sheet Metal Certification, in a format that was easy to understand. Directly Communicating with my instructor gave me the information on the skills I was lacking."
– Colton Wyman
Detailer / SOLIDWORKS - CSWP
What skills may be required to pass the CSWP-MBD exam:
- Reference Dimensions
- MidPlane
- Size Dimensions
- Annotation Views
- Intersection Geometry
- 3D PDF Tools
- DimXpert Dimensions
- DimXpert Features
- Auto Dimension Scheme
- Tolerance Styles
- Notes
- Tolerance Status
- Flag Note Bank
- Location Dimensions
- 3D Views
- Copy Scheme
- Pattern Feature
- Defining PMI
**There are several iterations of CSWP-MBD exam test questions and models, therefore some or all the above skills may be needed.**
Preparation
How do I prepare for the CSWP-MBD Exam?
The certified SOLIDWORKS Professional Model Based Definition Exam is a mix of multiple-choice and hands-on challenges focusing on annotations, DimXpert dimensions and features, along with 3D views and 3D PDF files. Do you know the difference between a DimXpert size and location dimension? What are the different DimXpert features? What options are available when creating a 3D view? Is it possible to attach files to a 3D PDF when creating one? What kind of information is available inside a 3D PDF? Knowing the answers to these and other MBD questions, summaries of which SOLIDWORKS provides in their help files will help with the multiple-choice questions. Revisiting the recommended training classes will help with the practical portion of the certification.
Download Models Featured in the Drawings Presentation
CSWP-MBD RECOMMENDED TRAINING
The GoEngineer SOLIDWORKS Essentials training course will teach you how to build 3D parametric models of parts and assemblies and prepare drawings of those parts and assemblies as you prepare for the CSWP.
The SOLIDWORKS MBD training course will teach you how to define Product Manufacturing Information (PMI), work with assemblies, and covers organizing and communicating PMI.
cswpA-SM Prep Course
CSWPA-SM
Continue your CSWP training with GoEngineer's industry approved CSWPA-SM prep course. This course was designed by SOLIDWORKS instructors.
Topics covered in this course:
- Base Flange Creation
- Advanced Sheet Metal Features
- Convert to Sheet Metal
- Sheet Metal In the CSWE
CERTIFICATION FAQ's
So, you're kicking the tires and trying to decide if this is worth your time and effort? Discover some good reasons to challenge yourself and commit to studying and learning enough to become a Certified SOLIDWORKS user!
Find out the main goals and some of the requirements for taking a certification exam. For a complete list of all the FAQs about SOLIDWORKS certification please see:
Showcase your accomplishments by choosing to be listed in the SOLIDWORKS Certification Directory and use it to discover who else is certified in your local area.
Did you take a certification exam but not pass it? The good news is that the 3DEXPERIENCE Certification Center keeps track of exam results, which can be used to determine which area or topic needs additional study. This can also be used to find out the statistical average scores from all users who have attempted the same exam.
If you're a hiring manager, you've likely seen a self-proclaimed SOLIDWORKS Expert status listed on a resume. How do you correctly determine that user's skill level? Through official SOLIDWORKS Certification exams.
Proof of authenticity is important when there is an industry established standard. SOLIDWORKS maintains a verification database to provide everyone with the ability to perform a ‘background’ check to ensure a certification is genuine.
How to Make a Virtual Tester Account From the Website
In this video, learn how to make a virtual tester ID from the website.
How to Make a Virtual Tester Account From the Tester Program
In this video, learn how to make a virtual tester ID from a test client.
In this video, learn how to make a SOLIDWORKS ID to gain access to your Subscription Benefits.
In this video, learn how to make a customer portal from an administered account.
Additional Study materials
TRAINING BOOKS AND GUIDES
Utilize guides and manuals written by certified SOLIDWORKS Instructors to help prepare you for the CSWP exam.
SOLIDWORKS 2025 Intermediate Skills: Expanding on Solids, Surfaces, Multibodies, Configurations, Drawings, Sheet MEtal, and Assemblies
by Paul Tran
SOLIDWORKS 2025 Intermediate Skills is part of a three-part series which builds on the SOLIDWORKS features learned in SOLIDWORKS 2025 Basic Tools. SOLIDWORKS 2025 Intermediate Skills broadens your SOLIDWORKS knowledge base by covering such features as surveys, lofts and boundaries, the use of multibodies, generating engineering drawings and other SOLIDWORKS functions that are critical for the effective use of this powerful software.
ASME Y14.41-2012: Digital Product Definition Data Practices: Engineering Drawing and Related Documentation Practices
by The American Society of Mechanical Engineers
This Standard establishes requirements and references documents applicable to the preparation and revision of digital product definition data, hereafter referred to as data sets. This Standard defines exceptions and additional requirements to existing ASME standards for using product definition digital data sets or drawing graphic sheet in digital format, hereafter referred to as drawing graphic sheet. When no exception or additional requirements are stated, existing ASME standards shall apply. It is essential that this Standard be used in close conjunction with ASME Y14.24, ASME Y14.34, ASME Y14.35M, and ASME Y14.100. In addition, classification codes as defined in ASME Y14.100 may apply for data sets that include a combination of a model and drawing graphics sheet.
SOLDIWORKS Part Reviewer Models
Access ready-to-use configurable and downloadable files.
3D Content Central: https://www.3dcontentcentral.com/parts/supplier/PCS-Company.aspx
SAMPLE EXAM AVAILABLE FROM THE SOLIDWORKS CERTIFICATION PAGE
Finally, right before you take your official Certification Exam, please download and attempt the following CSWP-MBD Sample Exam CLICK HERE
ACCESS CERTIFICATION EXAMS
HOW TO GET A SUBSCRIPTION VOUCHER
- Exam vouchers can be requested twice a year – one in the first half and another in the second half of each calendar year.
- Once a voucher code is generated, it can be redeemed by anyone. This allows users to share or give away their unused vouchers.
- Exam vouchers expire 180 days after they are issued.
- Once a voucher is entered into the VirtualTester, the exam must be taken immediately.
**WATCH ENTIRE VIDEO TUTORIAL BEFORE PROCEEDING**
HOW TO PURCHASE ADDITIONAL CREDITS
If you are a hiring manager and you want to use the Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate exam to use with a potential candidate, you can purchase Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate credit for around $100. Or perhaps, you are a SOLIDWORKS user who is anxious to earn a specific certification and you have already used up all of your available exam vouchers. In this case, you will need to purchase additional test credits. Check out this video to see how the procedure works.
How to use a test voucher
Now that you are ready to take that exam, see how you can use your test voucher!
managing test credits
As a hiring manager, watch this video to see how to create certification vouchers from purchased test credits to give out to prospective interview candidates to test their current SOLIDWORKS skill level.
JOIN THE RANKS OF CERTIFIED SOLIDWORKS USERS
Users who validate their skills with certifications represent an elite segment of the SOLIDWORKS community. For some, there is nothing more gratifying than achieving challenging certifications, and certificates are displayed like badges of honor. Others pursue certification to gain a competitive edge in the job market. No matter what your motivation, getting certified provides a clear path to SOLIDWORKS mastery. All certified users are added to a SOLIDWORKS directory corresponding to their level of achievement.
STEP 1.
STEP 2.
Next, click on the magnifying glass icon from the side left menu. 
STEP 3.
Review this video before proceeding.
Additional Resources
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Find a Solution
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