AutoCAD Workspace Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Instructor: Randy Dobson
• Location: Houston, Texas
• Topic: Overview of AutoCAD workspace and layout

AutoCAD Opening Screen

• Recent Documents: Accessible from the start screen
• A360: Online service (not covered in this course)
• Main options:
  • Start a drawing
  • Use templates
  • Open files

Drawing Area

• Active Drawings: Displayed at the top of the screen
• Drawing Area: Dark space where designs are created
• Function Keys:
  • F2 key: Opens text box for command history
  • Laptops may require additional key (e.g., Shift) to access F2

Command Input

• Command Line:
  • Located at the bottom
  • Unique feature of AutoCAD for typing commands
  • Lifeboat: Consistent across different AutoCAD versions
  • Example: Type LINE or abbreviation L to start drawing a line
  • Commands can be partially typed (e.g., CH for chamfer)

Customization

• Customization Options:
  • Access via the side panel
  • Checked options appear on the screen
  • Unnecessary options should be unchecked

Function Keys and Dynamic Input

• Hover Descriptions: Provides information on each function
• F8 Key: Example of turning options on/off
• Dynamic Input:
  • Allows command line input to appear on the screen
  • User preference on method of typing commands

Pull-down Menus and Flyouts

• Pull-down Menus: Contain various command options
• Flyouts:
  • Indicated by little arrows
  • Contain grouped commands like rectangle, polygon, fillet, etc.

Ending Commands

• Escape Key: Use to exit current commands
• Important to clear command line before starting a new command

Conclusion

• Importance of learning command line input
• Final tip: Always clear command line before starting a new task

---

This concludes the overview of the AutoCAD workspace.