AutoCAD

How to Trim Text in AutoCAD?

Understanding Text Trimming in AutoCAD

Trimming text in AutoCAD may seem challenging at first, but with the right steps, it can be done efficiently. Follow these detailed instructions to effectively trim text and enhance your design workflow in AutoCAD 2025.

Steps to Trim Text in AutoCAD

  1. Initiate Your Project
    Launch AutoCAD and open the project that contains the text you intend to trim. Ensure all relevant layers are visible and accessible.

  2. Convert Text to Polylines (If Necessary)
    Before trimming, the text must be converted into polylines.

    • Navigate to the Express Tools section located in the menu bar.
    • Select Modify Text from the dropdown options and click on Explode.
    • Click on the text you wish to convert. This will change it from a text object into polylines.
    • Press Enter to confirm the conversion. This step is crucial as the TRIM command does not operate on standard text objects.
  3. Utilize the TRIM Command
    After converting the text, you can proceed to trim the polylines.

    • Go to the Home tab and locate the Modify panel. Click on Trim.
    • When prompted, select the objects that will act as your cutting edges. Once you have made your selections, hit Enter.
    • Next, click on the portions of the text you want to trim. Press Enter again after completing the selection to finalize the trimming process.
  4. Check and Adjust as Needed
    After trimming, review the text for any adjustments. You may want to modify the remaining polylines for better visual appeal or alignment within your design.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I trim associative hatches in AutoCAD?
Only non-associative hatches can be trimmed. If your hatch is associative, it will need to be made non-associative first before trimming.

2. What is the purpose of the TRIM command in AutoCAD?
The TRIM command is designed to eliminate segments of objects that extend beyond boundaries established by other objects. This command is vital for maintaining clean and precise drawings.

3. Is it necessary to convert text to polylines before trimming?
Yes, it is necessary. The TRIM command works with polylines and other objects, but it does not operate on standard text entities. Converting text into polylines allows you to trim it effectively.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.