AutoCAD

How to Show and Hide the Command Window in AutoCAD?

by Wei Zhang
3 min read

Understanding the Command Window in AutoCAD

The Command Window in AutoCAD is essential for executing commands and accessing various features. Knowing how to show and hide this window can greatly streamline your workflow, especially when customizing your interface for specific tasks.

How to Show the Command Window

Method 1: Using Keyboard Shortcuts

  1. Press Ctrl + 9: This is a quick toggle to open or close the Command Window. If the Command Window is currently hidden, using this shortcut will bring it back to view.

Method 2: Accessing Through the Status Bar

  1. Right-click on the Status Bar: Locate either the Dynamic Input or Object Snap options.
  2. Select Settings: From the context menu that appears, choose the "Settings" option.
  3. Go to the Dynamic Input Tab: Look for the tab that controls Dynamic Input settings.
  4. Enable Command Prompt Visibility: Check the box that says “Show command prompting and command input near the crosshairs.”
  5. Click OK: Confirm the changes, and the Command Window should appear as specified.

How to Hide the Command Window

Method 1: Using Keyboard Shortcuts

  1. Press Ctrl + 9 Again: If you wish to hide the Command Window again after displaying it, simply press the same combination. It acts as a toggle.

Method 2: Configuring the Command Bar Visibility

  1. Access the Command Line: If it’s displayed, you can type commands directly.
  2. Type the Command to Hide: Enter the command -TOOLBAR and hit Enter.
  3. Select the Toolbar: Specify the toolbar that you want to hide or enter "All" to Close all active toolbars.
  4. Choose Hide Option: When prompted, select "Hide" to remove the toolbar or Command Window from the interface.

Customizing the Command Window

Rearranging and Resizing

  1. Click and Drag: The Command Window can be repositioned within the AutoCAD workspace. Simply click on the window’s title bar and drag it to your desired location.
  2. Resize the Window: Hover over the edges or corners of the Command Window until the cursor changes to a resize icon. Then, click and drag to adjust its dimensions.

FAQs

1. What if the Command Window doesn’t appear after using Ctrl + 9?

If the Command Window remains hidden, check your Status Bar settings to ensure that it is enabled. You may also want to access the CUI (Customize User Interface) editor to verify that the Command Window is not disabled.

2. Can I customize the Command Window settings?

Yes, AutoCAD allows several customization options for the Command Window, such as changing its size, moving its position, and adjusting visibility settings to better suit your working style.

3. How do I restore my AutoCAD interface to default settings?

To reset the interface, go to the CUI editor, find the option to reset workspace settings, or enter the command RESET in the Command Window. This action will revert your configurations to the initial defaults, restoring all toolbars and windows that may have been altered.

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.

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