Which of the following tools is commonly used for computer-aided design in engineering?

CAD software is specifically designed for computer-aided design in engineering, allowing engineers and designers to create precise drawings and models of components and assemblies. It offers tools for drafting, modeling, and visualizing designs, which can significantly enhance productivity and accuracy in the design process. Engineers can use CAD software to manipulate designs in a virtual space, test the integrity of structures, and even simulate functionality before physical prototypes are built.

In contrast, simulation software is used for testing and analyzing the performance of designs rather than creating them. A 3D printer is a fabrication tool that produces physical objects from digital models but does not facilitate the design process itself. Hand tools are manual tools used for physical construction or assembly, not digital design. Hence, CAD software is the tool that aligns most closely with the purpose of computer-aided design in engineering.