5 basic AutoCAD commands that beginners must know
These commands are the main 2D Drafting tools you will use every day:
| Command | Abbreviations (Shortcut) | Main duties |
| LINE | L | Create a straight line: Used to draw a straight line from the starting point to the ending point. This is the most basic command for creating shapes and elements. |
| OFFSET | THE | Parallel Copy: Copy objects (e.g. straight lines, circles, curves) parallel to a specified distance. Ideal for tasks requiring the quick creation of walls or parallel lines. |
| TRIM | TR (Press Enter twice) | Trimming Excess: Used to cut out parts of an object that exceed the boundaries of another object that it intersects, making the work neat and precise. |
| EXTEND | EX (press Enter twice) | Stretch Object: Used to stretch a line or object to the boundary of another object that is to be the boundary (Boundary Edge). Opposite of the TRIM command. |
| PLOT | PLOT (or PRINT ) | Print/Export File: Used to set the printing of the drawing to paper or save it as a digital file (such as PDF) as the final step of the work. |
| Key Focus | AutoCAD Basics , AutoCAD Commands, Learn AutoCAD, AutoCAD Beginners, Basic Commands | AutoCAD Basics, AutoCAD Commands, Learn AutoCAD, AutoCAD for Beginners, Essential Commands |
| Specialized tools | LINE, OFFSET, TRIM, EXTEND, PLOT, 2D drawing commands, AutoCAD shortcut keys | LINE command, OFFSET command, TRIM command, EXTEND command, PLOT command, 2D Drafting, AutoCAD Shortcuts |
| Objective/Level | Getting Started, Drafting Practice, AutoCAD Guide, AutoCAD Tips, Professional | Professional Start, Drafting Tutorial, AutoCAD Guide, AutoCAD Tips, Beginner Level |
Figure 1: AutoCAD Overview for Beginners
This figure provides a basic overview of AutoCAD, including key commands.
Figure 2: LINE and OFFSET Commands
Highlights the LINE and OFFSET commands, the first two commands learned, with illustrations of their use.
Figure 3: The TRIM and EXTEND commands
demonstrate the TRIM and EXTEND functions, which are often used together to manipulate lines.
Figure 4: The PLOT command
highlights the PLOT command, which is the final step in presenting the results.
