AutoCAD Tutorial

Getting Started
T Sunitha
 What is Auto CAD
• Auto CAD is the Application Software developed by Auto Desk Company
in the year 1982.
• AutoCAD, short for Computer-Aided Design, is a sophisticated software
application developed by Autodesk.
• Auto CAD was one of the first computer-aided Design /Drafting(CAD)
software applications in the world.
• It is utilized for creating precise 2D and 3D drawings, models, and designs.
• AutoCAD plays a pivotal role in transforming conceptual ideas into
detailed visual representations, making it an indispensable tool in the
field of design and drafting.
 Types of Software
• Operating Software: Windows 7, Windows 10, Linux
• Application Sofware: The Software which works on operating software
is called Application Software.
Example: Auto CAD, MS –Office, Zoom , Etc.
• Utility Software: when you connect and device to a PC we need
drivers.
Example: Drivers
 Auto CAD Versions
• First Version of Auto Cad was developed as Release(R1)
• From R1 to R13 all versions are DOS based.
• From R14 versions are Windows-based.
• In 2001, 2002 and 2004 from this Version onwards are Internet based.
• Nex version developed as 2005, 2006 from version onwards
softwarehas Express Menu in menu Tool bar
 Importance of Auto CAD
Precision and Accuracy: AutoCAD enables designers to create drawings with unparalleled precision,
ensuring accuracy in measurements and geometrical details.
Efficiency and Productivity: The software streamlines the design process, reducing the time required
to create complex drawings and models. This efficiency is crucial for meeting tight project deadlines.
Versatility: AutoCAD caters to a wide range of industries, including architecture, engineering,
manufacturing, and construction. Its versatility makes it a go-to solution for professionals across
diverse design disciplines.
Visualization and Communication: The 3D modeling capabilities of AutoCAD allow designers to
visualize projects realistically, aiding in better communication of ideas to clients, stakeholders, and
team members.
Parametric Design: AutoCAD's parametric design features facilitate the creation of intelligent designs
that can be easily modified. This enhances flexibility and adaptability during the design process.
Standardization: AutoCAD promotes standardization in design documentation, ensuring consistency
across drawings and facilitating collaboration among design teams.
Digital Transformation: In the era of digital transformation, AutoCAD plays a pivotal role in
transitioning from traditional manual drafting methods to efficient and automated digital design
processes.
 How To Install Auto CAD
• https://www.Autodesk.com/education/free-download/autocad
Table of Contents
• Schedule for AutoCAD course
Daywise Schedule_APSCHE-2025 - Auto CAD(EEE) (1).pdf
 AutoCAD User Interface
1.Ribbon:
1. The Ribbon is a central element of the AutoCAD interface, providing a
tabbed toolbar that organizes commands in a visually accessible manner.
2. It contains various panels, each dedicated to specific tasks such as
drawing, modifying, and annotating.
3. The Ribbon enhances workflow efficiency by grouping related commands
and tools.
2.Command Line:
1. The Command Line is a text-based interface located at the bottom of the
screen.
2. Users can input commands directly, enabling precise control over
AutoCAD functions.
3. It serves as a quick and efficient way to execute commands, especially
for users who prefer keyboard input.
 AutoCAD User Interface
3. Model Space:
1. Model Space is the primary workspace where users create and edit the
actual drawing or 3D model.
2. It provides a virtual environment where elements are drafted and
manipulated.
3. Users design and build within the Model Space before organizing the
drawing for presentation in Layouts.
4. Layout Tabs:
4. Layout Tabs allow users to create and manage multiple views or layouts
within a single drawing file.
5. Each layout tab represents a separate page, facilitating the organization of
different views, scales, and sheet setups.
6. Users can switch between layouts to work on various aspects of the design
or create different views for presentation.
 AutoCAD User Interface
3. Model Space:
1. Model Space is the primary workspace where users create and edit the
actual drawing or 3D model.
2. It provides a virtual environment where elements are drafted and
manipulated.
3. Users design and build within the Model Space before organizing the
drawing for presentation in Layouts.
4. Layout Tabs:
4. Layout Tabs allow users to create and manage multiple views or layouts
within a single drawing file.
5. Each layout tab represents a separate page, facilitating the organization of
different views, scales, and sheet setups.
6. Users can switch between layouts to work on various aspects of the design
or create different views for presentation.
 Template
• Template is a file consisting of settings like snap settings, status tool
bar settings, Layout settings, layers, etc, and can be inserted in a
project file to save time.
acad.dwt- Engish system (Imperial System)
Acadiso.dwt- Metric Sytem
 File Format
• .dwg – Auto CAD drawing file
• .dwt- AutoCAD template File
 Auto CAD Co-ordinate Entry
1. Absolute Coordinate Entry:
Methods
• Format: X,Y or X,Y,Z
• Example: 3,4 or 5,8,2
• Enters coordinates relative to the origin (0,0) or a specified base point.

2. Relative Coordinate Entry:

• Format: @X,Y or @X,Y,Z
• Example: @3,4 or @5,8,2
• Specifies coordinates relative to the last point picked or entered.

3. Polar Coordinate Entry:

• Format: distance<angle or distance<angle<elevation
• Example: 5<45 or 8<30<2
• Enters coordinates based on distance and angle from the last point.
 Metric System
• Open a New Drawing:

• Start AutoCAD.
• Choose a template or use the default template.
• If you want to change the units for an existing drawing, open that drawing instead.
• Set Drawing Units:

• Type UNITS in the command line and press Enter.

• The "Drawing Units" window will appear.
• In the "Length" drop-down menu, select the metric unit you prefer (e.g., Millimeters,
Centimeters, Meters).
• Choose the precision for the units (e.g., 0.00 for two decimal places).
 English System(Imperial Units)
• Open a New Drawing:

• Start AutoCAD.
• Choose a template or use the default template.
• Set Drawing Units:

• Type UNITS in the command line and press Enter.

• The "Drawing Units" window will appear.
• In the "Length" drop-down menu, select the imperial unit you prefer (e.g., Inches,
Feet).
• Choose the precision for the units (e.g., 0'-0 1/16" for architectural units).
 Paper Sizes
• A0: 841 x 1189 mm (33.1 x 46.8 inches)
• A1: 594 x 841 mm (23.4 x 33.1 inches)
• A2: 420 x 594 mm (16.5 x 23.4 inches)
• A3: 297 x 420 mm (11.7 x 16.5 inches)
• A4: 210 x 297 mm (8.3 x 11.7 inches)
Function Keys
• F1: Help
Pressing F1 opens the AutoCAD Help window, providing information and assistance
on commands, features, and settings.

• F2: Text Window / Command Line

F2 toggles the text window on and off, which displays the command history and
prompts. It provides a more detailed view of the command line.

• F3: Object Snap

F3 toggles the Object Snap mode on and off. Object Snap allows you to snap to
precise points on existing objects during drawing or editing.
• .
 Function Keys – Used in 3D
• F4: 3D Object Snap
F4 toggles the 3D Object Snap mode on and off. This mode allows you to snap to
specific points in 3D space.

• F5: Isometric Drafting

F5 toggles between the different isometric drafting planes (Top, Right, Left).

• F6: Dynamic UCS

F6 toggles the Dynamic UCS (User Coordinate System) on and off. Dynamic UCS
adjusts the coordinate system dynamically based on the face of a 3D object you are
working on.
 Function Keys
• F7: Grid Display
F7 toggles the display of the grid on and off.

• F8: Ortho Mode

F8 toggles Ortho mode on and off. Ortho mode restricts cursor movement to
horizontal or vertical directions.

• F9: Snap Mode

F9 toggles Snap mode on and off. Snap mode helps you create drawings with
precision by snapping to specified intervals.
 Function Keys
• F10: Polar Tracking
F10 toggles Polar Tracking on and off. Polar Tracking helps you draw or modify objects
at specified angles.

• F11: Object Snap Tracking

F11 toggles Object Snap Tracking on and off. Object Snap Tracking allows you to track
along a specified alignment path.

• F12: Dynamic Input

F12 toggles Dynamic Input on and off. Dynamic Input provides a command interface
near the cursor, allowing you to input commands and values dynamically
 Creating a New Drawing
• Setting Up Units and Limits:
• Units(UN)
• Units define the measurement system for the drawing, such as inches,
millimeters, or feet.
• Accurate units are crucial for maintaining scale and precision in your design.
• AutoCAD provides flexibility to switch between unit systems based on
project requirements.
• Limits(LIMITS)
• Limits define the drawing area and help in controlling the size of the drawing
extents.
• Setting appropriate limits ensures that the drawing is contained within a
specific boundary.
• It is essential for controlling the scale and print layout of the final drawing.
 Creating a New Drawing
• Step-by-Step Process:
1. Launch AutoCAD:
1. Open the AutoCAD software on your computer.
2. Start a New Drawing:
1. Click on the "New" button or use the "Ctrl + N" keyboard shortcut to initiate a new drawing.
3. Choose a Template:
1. Select an appropriate template based on your project requirements (e.g., drawing units, title blocks). Templates can be
customized or selected from default options.
4. Specify Drawing Units:(Short Cut: UN)
1. Click on the "Application" menu, then select "Drawing Utilities" > "Units.“ short for UN
2. In the Drawing Units dialog box, choose the desired units for length and angle (e.g., inches, millimeters, degrees).
3. Confirm and close the dialog box.
5. Set Drawing Limits:(Shor Cut: LIMITS)
1. Access the "Format" tab on the Ribbon.
2. Click on "Drawing Limits" in the "Drawing Setup" panel.
3. In the Drawing Limits dialog box, define the extent of the drawing by specifying the minimum and maximum
coordinates.
4. Click "OK" to apply the limits.
6. Draw in Model Space:
1. Ensure you are in Model Space by clicking the "Model" tab at the bottom of the screen.
2. Start creating your drawing using drawing tools like lines, circles, and rectangles.
7. Save Your Drawing:
1. Periodically save your work using the "Save" or "Save As" option in the "Quick Access Toolbar" or the "Ctrl + S"
keyboard shortcut.
 BASIC Drawing Commands
Line:
1.Command: L
2.Description: Draws straight lines between two points.
3.Example: Type "L," specify the start point (e.g., 0,0) and end
point (e.g., 5,5).
Circle:
4.Command: C
5.Description: Creates a circle based on specified parameters
(radius, diameter, or two points on the circumference).
6.Example: Type "C," then input the center point and
radius/diameter.
 Basic Drawing Commands
Rectangle:
1.Command: REC
2.Description: Draws a rectangular shape based on specified
parameters (corner points or length and width).
3.Example: Type "REC," then input the first corner point and
opposite corner point.
Arc:
4.Command: A
5.Description: Generates an arc segment based on various
methods, including center, start-end, and start-center-end.
6.Example: Type "A," then choose a method and input the
required parameters.
 Basic Drawing Commands
Ellipse:
1.Command: EL
2.Description: Construct an ellipse using specified parameters, such as center,
axis length, and rotation angle.
3.Example: Type "EL," then input the center point and major/minor axis lengths.
Polyline:
4.Command: PL
5.Description: Creates a series of connected line or arc segments as a single
object.
6.Example: Type "PL," then specify points to form a continuous path.
Hatch:
7.Command: H
8.Description: Fills an enclosed area with a pattern or solid color.
9.Example: Type "H," select the boundary, and choose a hatch pattern.
 DRAW COMMANDS
• LINE(L)
• POLYLINE (PL)
• ROTATE(RO)
• MIRROR(MI)
• ERASE(E)
• TRIM(TR)
• OFFSET(O)
• EXPLODE(X)
• JOIN(J)
 MODIFY COMMANDS
• MOVE(M)
• COPY (CO)
• ROTATE(RO)
• MIRROR(MI)
• ERASE(E)
• TRIM(TR)
• OFFSET(O)
• EXPLODE(X)
• JOIN(J)
 ANNOTATION
• MTEXT(MT)
• TEXT(ST)
• Dimension(D)
 LAYERS
LAYER(LA)
Layer Freeze(LAYFRZ)
Layer lock(LAYLCK)
Layer Current (LAYCUR)
Layer Delete (LAYDEL)
Layer ISOLATE(LAYISO)
LAYER MATCH(LAYMCH)
LAYER MERGE(LAYMRG)
LAYER OFF(LAYOFF)
LAYER ON(LAYON
• Match(MA)
• PAN(P)
• Quick Calculator(QC)
• Scale(SC)