Group 1: Drawing Commands
These are the most basic commands used to create various shapes in drafting.
1. LINE (L) - Drawing Straight Lines
- Function: Create free-form straight lines or specify length and angle.
- Benefits for Beginners: This is the first command used to draw lines to create the structure of a design.
- Shortcut key: L (press Enter)
2. CIRCLE (C) - Drawing a Circle
- Function: Create a circle by specifying a center and radius, or other points based on conditions (e.g., 2P, 3P).
- Benefits for Beginners: Use this to create circular elements such as columns, holes, or pipes.
- Shortcut key: C (press Enter).
3. RECTANGLE (REC) - Drawing a Rectangle
- Function: Quickly create a rectangle or square by specifying two corner points.
- Benefits for Beginners: Use this to create basic shapes such as walls and boundaries.
- Shortcut key: REC (press Enter).
Group 2: Modify Commands
These commands are used to modify, manipulate, or copy objects that have already been created.
4. MOVE (M) - Moving Objects
- Function: Moves a selected object from one location to another.
- Benefits for Beginners: Positions elements in the correct position.
- Shortcut Key: M (Press Enter)
5. COPY (CO) - Copying an object
- Function: Copies the selected object to another location while preserving the original object.
- Benefits for beginners: Duplicates similar elements, such as windows, doors, and furniture.
- Shortcut key: CO (press Enter).
6. TRIM (TR) - Cutting Objects
- Function: Trims excess lines or objects by referencing the Cutting Edge.
- Benefits for Beginners: Cleans up excess line seams.
- Shortcut Key: TR (Press Enter)
7. EXTEND (EX) - Connecting Objects
- Function: Connects selected lines or objects to a specified boundary edge.
- Benefits for Beginners: Completes missing lines.
- Shortcut: EX (Press Enter)
8. OFFSET (O) - Creating Parallel Lines
- Function: Creates lines, circles, or polylines with the same shape but at specified spacing.
- Benefits for Beginners: Creates the thickness of walls, curbs, or other parallel lines.
- Shortcut key: O (press Enter).
Group 3: Additional and Convenience Commands
Commands that assist with editing, organizing, and cleaning up your work files.
9. ERASE (E) - Object Deletion
- Function: Erases selected objects from your design.
- Benefits for Beginners: This is the easiest and fastest way to remove unwanted objects.
- Shortcut Key: E (Press Enter)
10. HATCH (H) - Pattern Insertion
- Function: Use this to insert a pattern or solid fill into a closed area.
- Benefits for Beginners: Use this to display material symbols (e.g., brick walls, concrete) or to highlight areas.
- Shortcut key: H (press Enter)
Bonus: Other Important Commands You Should Know
- EXPLODE (X): Splits a block or polyline into a single line.
- UNDO (U / Ctrl+Z): Undoes the last action.
- DIMENSION (DLI/DAL/DAN): A set of commands used to measure and display the dimensions of objects.
Learning and memorizing these shortcuts can greatly speed up your drafting.
Software/Programs:
- AutoCAD
Content Type:
- Basic Commands, Shortcuts, Keyboard Shortcuts, Basics, Beginner, Tutorial
Command Group:
- Draw, Modify, Drawing Commands, Editing Commands
Usage:
- Drafting, AutoCAD Techniques, Faster, Beginner
AutoCAD, AutoCAD Commands, Keyboard Shortcuts, Beginner, Basic Commands, Drafting, Draw, Modify, Shortcuts, Basics
1. Drawing Commands
This image demonstrates the ability to create basic shapes such as lines, circles, and rectangles, which are the starting point for all drawings.
2. Move & Copy Commands
This image highlights commands used to manipulate the position of objects, such as moving or copying them, which allow for quick repetitive compositions.
