How to Change Esc Key in AutoCAD?

Understanding the Function of the Esc Key in AutoCAD

The Esc key, or Escape key, serves multiple important functions within AutoCAD. It is primarily used to cancel commands, exit menus, and close dialog boxes. However, some users may prefer to reassign this key to enhance their workflow. This guide outlines how to effectively change the functionality of the Esc key in AutoCAD 2025.

Step 1: Accessing AutoCAD’s Keyboard Shortcuts

To customize key functions in AutoCAD, you will need to access the keyboard shortcuts settings. Here’s how:

1. Open AutoCAD 2025 on your computer.
2. On the command line, type CUI (which stands for Customize User Interface) and press Enter.
3. This action will launch the Customize User Interface dialog box.

Step 2: Locating the Esc Key Settings

Within the Customize User Interface, you can find the existing assignments for keys.

1. In the dialog box, navigate to the “Keyboard Shortcuts” section.
2. Under Keyboard Shortcuts, look for the “Shortcut Keys” option.
3. Browse the list to locate the Esc key. This may be listed under a specific category, such as “Common Commands” or similar.

Step 3: Reassigning the Esc Key

Once you have located the Esc key, you can assign a new command or function.

1. Click on the Esc key in the list to select it.
2. After selecting the key, look for an option such as “Properties” or “Edit.”
3. In the properties section, you can specify a new command that you wish the Esc key to perform. For instance, you might want it to execute a different command like “Undo” or close the current drawing.
4. After entering the new command, confirm the changes by clicking “OK” or “Apply.”

Step 4: Testing the New Key Assignment

After reassigning the Esc key, it’s important to test to ensure the new assignment works as intended.

1. Close the Customize User Interface dialog and return to your AutoCAD workspace.
2. Try using the Esc key to see if it performs the newly assigned command.
3. If it does not function as expected, revisit the CUI settings to rectify any errors in the command assignment.

Step 5: Saving Your Customizations

To ensure that your changes are retained for future sessions:

1. In the CUI dialog, look for a save option.
2. Choose “Save” or similar to keep your custom keyboard settings.
3. Exit the CUI when you are done.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues with the Esc key not functioning correctly:

• Driver Check: Make sure your keyboard drivers are up to date.
• Keyboard Test: Use another keyboard to see if the issue is hardware related.
• Reset Settings: If problems persist, consider resetting AutoCAD’s settings to default or reassigning other keys to test their functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I revert the Esc key to default settings after changing it?
Yes, you can always return to the Customize User Interface and reset the Esc key to its original command by selecting it and assigning it back its default function.

2. Will changing the Esc key affect other keyboard shortcuts?
Changing the Esc key assignment will only affect the functions you directly modify. It does not generally impact other keyboard shortcuts unless a conflict arises with another key assignment.

3. What if AutoCAD is not recognizing my new key assignment?
Ensure that the command you assigned to the Esc key is correctly entered and that there are no syntax errors. Additionally, check if the modifications were saved properly in the CUI settings. Restarting AutoCAD can also help to refresh any changes made.