How To Give Degree Symbol In AutoCAD?

Inserting the Degree Symbol in AutoCAD: A Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding the Degree Symbol

The degree symbol (°) is essential when working with angles in AutoCAD, especially in drafting and design. Knowing how to accurately insert this symbol can enhance your project presentations and ensure clarity in your drawings.

Method 1: Using Keyboard Shortcuts

1. Select the Text Tool: Open your AutoCAD workspace and navigate to the text tool on the ribbon. Click to start the text entry.
2. Position the Cursor: Place your cursor at the point in the text where you want to insert the degree symbol.
3. Use the Keyboard Combination:
   • If you have a numeric keypad, hold down the Alt key and type 0176 on the numeric keypad.
   • If you don’t have a numeric keypad, another method is to type \u00B0 during text input, which will translate to the degree symbol.

Method 2: Using the Symbol Dialog

1. Open the Symbol Dialog: Access the character map by opening the Windows accessory for character symbols. You can do this by typing "Character Map" into the Windows search bar.
2. Find the Degree Symbol: In the character map, look for the degree symbol. You may need to scroll or search.
3. Copy the Degree Symbol: Once found, click on the degree symbol and select “Copy.”
4. Insert into AutoCAD: Return to AutoCAD, position your cursor where you want the symbol, and paste it using Ctrl + V (or right-click and select Paste).

Method 3: Using AutoCAD’s Text Formatting

1. Create a Text Object: Start by creating a text object. Click on the TEXT or MTEXT command to begin.
2. Insert the Symbol: Within the text editor, you can manually type *D or Degree and use formatting to replace it with the degree symbol. This can sometimes vary depending on the text style in use.
3. Apply Formatting: After typing the placeholder (like *D), select it, then look for formatting options to replace it with the actual degree symbol.

Important Notes

• Ensure that you’re working in a text style that supports special characters. If the symbol does not appear correctly, check your font settings.
• If you frequently need the degree symbol, consider creating a custom block or shortcut within AutoCAD for quicker access.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I insert the degree symbol in dimensions in AutoCAD?
Yes, you can insert the degree symbol in dimension styles by customizing the dimensioning text or using the same insertion methods discussed above within the dimension text editor.

2. Are there any font restrictions for the degree symbol in AutoCAD?
While most standard fonts support the degree symbol, it is essential to ensure you are using a font that accommodates special characters. Common fonts like Arial or TrueType fonts generally include the degree symbol.

3. Is using the character map the only way to get the degree symbol?
No, you can also use the keyboard shortcuts or the text formatting methods directly within AutoCAD. The character map is just an alternative for those who may prefer visual selection.