Introduction to AutoCAD Commands: Basic to Advanced & How to Learn

AutoCAD Commands

AutoCAD commands are the instructions you give the software to create and edit your designs.

Think of them like the words in a language, and each one tells AutoCAD to perform a specific action, from drawing a simple line to creating a complex 3D model.

There is a huge range of commands, each designed for a specific task.

You’ll find commands for drawing geometric shapes, modifying existing objects, adding annotations and text, managing layers, and much, much more. Learning to navigate these commands can seem daunting at first, but with practice, they become second nature, allowing you to bring your visions to life.

Knowing them well helps streamline your workflow and make you a more productive professional.

Today we are going to break down some of the most useful AutoCAD commands for AEC professionals, making them easy to understand and use.

We’ll cover basic commands for drawing and editing, essential commands for accuracy and organisation, and even some advanced tips that will help you take your AutoCAD skills to the next level.

So without further ado, let’s dive in!

What are commands in AutoCAD?

In simple terms, commands are how you communicate with AutoCAD.

Instead of just clicking around, you type in specific words or use shortcuts that tell the software exactly what you want to do.

These commands are the foundation of all AutoCAD tasks. They are essentially instructions that trigger pre-programmed actions, allowing you to draw, modify, analyse, and present your designs. Every line you draw, every circle you create, and every dimension you add is the result of a command.

Think of them like the verbs in the language of design. They help you take your ideas and turn them into technical drawings.

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What are the basic commands in AutoCAD?

For those just starting out, there are a handful of basic commands that are essential to learn first. These are the building blocks of most AutoCAD projects. Here are a few key ones:

  • LINE: This command, often accessed by simply typing ‘L’, allows you to draw straight lines. It’s the most fundamental command you’ll use.
  • CIRCLE: Typing ‘C’ lets you draw circles, specifying either the center and radius or the diameter.
  • RECTANGLE: ‘REC’ creates rectangles and squares, just define two opposite corners.
  • ERASE: ‘E’ will remove selected objects from your drawing. A must-know for cleaning up mistakes.
  • MOVE: ‘M’ will let you move an object from one location to another.
  • COPY: ‘CO’ will copy selected object, making a duplicate of them, that can be positioned anywhere in the drawing.
  • TRIM: ‘TR’ will trim lines and objects to other objects.
  • EXTEND: ‘EX’ will extend lines and objects to other objects.
  • OFFSET: ‘O’ will create a copy of an object at a specific distance.
  • ZOOM: ‘Z’ will let you magnify an area of your drawing to get a better view.
  • PAN: ‘P’ lets you move around within your drawing, just like moving a camera.

These basic commands are a great starting point. They allow you to create simple drawings, make edits, and help you understand the core logic of AutoCAD.

What are advanced AutoCAD commands?

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can start exploring more advanced commands that really boost your productivity and create more detailed drawings. Here are a few examples:

  • BLOCK: ‘B’ creates blocks, which are reusable groups of objects. This is vital for efficiency when working with repeating elements like doors, windows, or furniture.
  • LAYER: Layer management is crucial for organising your drawings, and the ‘LAYER’ command (‘LA’) opens the Layer Properties Manager.
  • HATCH: ‘H’ adds hatch patterns to closed areas, which can be used to indicate materials or areas.
  • DIMENSION: Commands like ‘DIMLINEAR’ or ‘DIMRADIUS’ are essential for adding accurate measurements to your drawings.
  • POLYGON: ‘POL’ draws shapes with a specific number of sides.
  • FILLET: ‘F’ adds rounded corners between objects.
  • CHAMFER: ‘CHA’ creates beveled edges between objects.
  • ARRAY: ‘AR’ creates copies of an object in a pattern.
  • PURGE: ‘PU’ cleans up your drawing by removing unused objects.

These commands will let you create more professional drawings that not only show your designs but also are organised and structured for construction and future reference.

Keep in mind, the commands we’ve covered here are just some of the most popular. 

If you’re looking for a full list of commands from A to Z, feel free to check out the official AutoCAD command and shortcut guide.

How do I use commands in AutoCAD?

Okay, so you’re ready to actually use those AutoCAD commands, right? It’s one thing to know what they are and another to know how to make them work for you. Think of it like learning a new skill—you need to understand the tools and the steps to use them effectively.

Here’s how you start putting those AutoCAD commands into action, step-by-step:

Option 1 – Typing Commands

The most direct way to talk to AutoCAD is through the command line, usually found at the bottom of your screen. It’s where you type in commands.

  • Step 1: Activate the Command Line: Click inside the command line box (if you have not used a command before, there may not be a text cursor blinking there).
  • Step 2: Enter the Command: Let’s say you want to draw a line, type either LINE or its shortcut, L.
  • Step 3: Press Enter: Hit the ‘Enter’ key. This tells AutoCAD you’ve finished typing the command, and it’s time for action!
  • Step 4: Follow the Prompts: Now, watch the command line. AutoCAD is asking, “Specify first point.” Click anywhere in your drawing area to set the start of your line.
  • Step 5: Continue the Command: AutoCAD will now prompt “Specify next point.” Click somewhere else to end the line and create the straight line. You can keep clicking to continue creating connected straight lines.
  • Step 6: End Command: To finish, press ‘Enter’ or ‘Escape’.

Option 2 – Using the Ribbon Menu

The ribbon at the top of your screen is full of visually represented commands.

  • Step 1: Navigate the Ribbon: Look at the ribbon, which is organised into tabs like “Home,” “Insert,” etc. These tabs contain panels full of tools.
  • Step 2: Find Your Tool: Click on the “Home” tab. Look for the “Draw” panel and locate the “Line” tool (it looks like a line).
  • Step 3: Click the Tool: Click the “Line” icon. This activates the LINE command, just as if you’d typed it into the command line.
  • Step 4: Follow the Prompts: From here on, follow the same steps as in the typing method: specify your first point, second point, and so on, until you’ve drawn what you wanted.

Option 3 – Drag and Drop via Tool Palettes

Tool palettes are for quick access to the same commands.

  • Step 1: Open Tool Palettes: If you can’t see your tool palettes, type “TOOLPALETTES” into the command line and press Enter.
  • Step 2: Find a Tool: You’ll see groups of tools; navigate to the desired group and select a command (for example, select the “Circle” tool).
  • Step 3: Drag & Drop: Simply click on the “Circle” tool icon and drag it into your drawing area.
  • Step 4: Follow the Prompts: Now the CIRCLE command is activated, and you just have to click for the centre and then for the radius.

Option 4 – Using the Keyboard Shortcuts

Shortcuts, or aliases, are quicker ways to type commands.

  • Example: Instead of typing CIRCLE, you can type C and press Enter. This will directly start the circle drawing process.
  • Practice: A good way to learn them is to try to use them in all the above steps whenever you use a command.
  • Result: The more you use shortcuts, the faster you will become in AutoCAD.

Now you have different methods to make AutoCAD work for you. Try them out and see which approach fits best for your workflow.

Practice is the key! You will get faster with every drawing you make.

How can I customise commands in AutoCAD?

AutoCAD allows you to customise commands to match how you work. Here are some options:

  • Alias Customisation: You can change the shortcuts for the commands you frequently use. For instance, you could change the shortcut for ‘COPY’ from ‘CO’ to ‘CP’. You can do this through the PGP command.
  • Custom toolbars and ribbon: You can create a personalised toolbox with commands you use regularly. You can even customise your ribbon so the commands you use most are in one place.
  • LISP routines: For more complex customisation, you can write or use existing LISP routines. These are short programs that can automate repetitive tasks and add functionality to AutoCAD.

Customising the commands can increase your efficiency and work style.

Why are my AutoCAD commands not working?

If your AutoCAD commands are not working, there could be a few reasons. Here are some common causes and how to check them:

  • Command Line Issues: Make sure the command line is visible. If it has been closed, it can be re-opened by pressing CTRL + 9. Check also if you have typed the commands correctly. Even a small typo can cause the command to fail.
  • Object Selection Problems: Sometimes the command works, but the object selection is the problem. Double-check that you’ve selected the right objects and that the selection filter isn’t preventing you from choosing the correct ones.
  • Software Bugs: Occasionally, there might be a software bug. Restarting AutoCAD or updating to the latest version may fix this issue.
  • Corrupted Drawing: If the drawing itself is corrupted, some commands might not work. Trying to open the drawing with RECOVER command could fix the problem.

Troubleshooting is part of learning. If commands are not working, systematically check these possible errors to figure out the problem and the solution.

Okay, here’s the revised section, removing the mention of books as a learning resource and further adjusting the tone to be more direct and less conversational:

Where can I learn AutoCAD commands & How to get better at using it?

It takes strategy to become proficient with AutoCAD commands, and there are a number of resources available to help you along the way. Think of it as building a valuable skill set—the more you engage with the learning process, the more adept you become.

The first way to learn is through AutoCAD’s built-in documentation.

AutoCAD includes its own detailed help documentation, which is readily accessible. You can find a thorough explanation for every command by typing the command into the command line and pressing F1. This built-in help is a reliable resource for immediate clarification on specific commands.

The second way is through online tutorials and courses.

The internet offers a wealth of AutoCAD learning materials. Platforms like YouTube, Udemy, and Coursera provide a wide selection of tutorials and courses, ranging from introductory to advanced levels.

These are valuable resources for both quick tips and comprehensive learning.

The third way is through certified AutoCAD online courses.

For a dedicated and structured learning path, consider enrolling in a certified AutoCAD online course. These programs often provide a focused curriculum, expert guidance, and the opportunity to earn a credential.

This can be ideal for individuals seeking a committed learning experience.

The final step is to consistently apply all of the new information you learn through practice.

Work on diverse projects, experiment with new commands, and don’t hesitate to make mistakes. Practical application is essential for solidifying your learning.

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Remember, mastering AutoCAD is a journey that requires dedication.

The fastest way to progress is by actively engaging in a mix of input and output. This means absorbing information through learning resources like videos and tutorials while simultaneously putting that knowledge into practice by building your own designs.

Don’t worry if you don’t have immediate real-world projects. Creating mockups is an excellent way to experiment, test your understanding, and solidify your skills.

This balanced approach will allow you to confidently navigate AutoCAD and use it effectively in your professional work.

Start Learning AutoCAD Commands

Mastering AutoCAD is crucial for creating accurate and efficient designs. To stay competitive, work effectively, and advance your career, continuous professional development is key, and that starts with having a solid grasp on AutoCAD.

But how can you effectively gain the skills and expertise you need?

Interscale Education provides certified online AutoCAD courses designed specifically for AEC professionals like you, helping you become proficient in the latest techniques and workflows. We don’t just teach commands, we help you master them.

Here’s what you’ll gain from our certified online AutoCAD courses:

  • Over 100 Certified Courses: Access a vast library of courses in CAD, BIM, and project management.
  • Practical, Real-World Applications: Learn through video lessons that show the application of AutoCAD in real AEC projects.
  • 60+ Years of Combined Experience: Benefit from expert instructors with decades of experience in both IT and construction.
  • 60,000+ Minutes of Video Content: Learn at your own pace, anytime, anywhere, with our extensive video library.
  • Industry-Recognised Certifications: Earn certifications respected within the industry, backed by our Autodesk Gold Partner status.

Interscale Education’s certified online AutoCAD courses give you the practical skills you need to produce accurate 2D and 3D models, optimise your design process, and become a more valuable asset in the AEC industry. We help you build a path for career advancement through a mastery of AutoCAD.Start building your future with certified AutoCAD online courses from Interscale—enroll today!

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