## 1 Introduction
Research indicates that virtual environments advance unconventional design exploration [20], while structured sketching and visualization interventions help reduce inhibition in novice designers [15]. Similarly, 3D descriptive geometry methodologies reinforce the role of immersive learning in problem-solving and creativity [22]. Despite extensive research on CAD tools and creativity, empirical studies quantifying the impact of automation on both efficiency and creative performance remain limited. While CAD research has extensively examined usability and functionality, fewer studies have rigorously measured how automation influences user performance, learning outcomes, and creative thinking in CAD environments [23]. This research gap highlights the need for quantitative evaluations of automated CAD tools, particularly in assessing their impact on student workflows. Additionally, developing teaching approaches that balance technical competence with creativity is crucial, given the diversity of CAD education methodologies among instructors [21]. Creativity assessment frameworks for engineering students have been introduced to quantify the impact of CAD training on design thinking and product innovation, offering structured evaluations of CAD's role in promoting creative problem-solving [19]. This study compares the performance of beginner CAD users in AutoCAD and AutoCAD Mechanical, focusing on command usage, task completion time, and creative design output. By analyzing command execution logs, tool usage frequency, and workflow improvements, the research provides a quantitative assessment of workflow optimization in AutoCAD Mechanical. Furthermore, through rubric-based evaluation--commonly used in CAD-related studies [24, 25]--the study examines how automation influences creativity and problem-solving in mechanical drafting. This study addresses a critical gap in the literature concerning the combined impact of specialized CAD toolsets on both user efficiency and creative performance. Although prior research has examined aspects of CAD usability and automation, few works have quantitatively compared general-purpose and specialized drafting tools in terms of their influence on workflow optimization and design innovation. By analyzing command usage, task duration, and creative outcomes using a structured rubric, this work offers a comprehensive evaluation of how automation-integrated environments affect novice users. The main contribution lies in demonstrating that specialized CAD software not only enhances operational efficiency but also fosters more innovative and functional design solutions. Distinct from previous studies that typically focus on technical or educational outcomes in isolation, this research provides an integrated perspective that highlights the pedagogical and practical advantages of automation-driven tools in mechanical design training. The paper follows a systematic structure: Section 2 details the methodology for evaluating efficiency and creativity, including the experimental setup and assessment criteria. Section 3 presents results, comparing AutoCAD and AutoCAD Mechanical in command usage, workflow efficiency, and creativity scores. Section 4 discusses the implications of the findings for engineering education and professional design workflows. Finally, Section 5 summarizes key insights and outlines future research directions in CAD innovation.