Change AutoCAD to Classic View?

Changing AutoCAD to Classic View: Step-by-Step Guide

If you prefer the traditional interface of AutoCAD and want to switch to the classic view, follow this detailed guide. The classic view provides a more streamlined and familiar environment for users accustomed to older versions of AutoCAD.

Step 1: Access the Command Line

Start AutoCAD and locate the command line at the bottom of your workspace. This is where you will enter commands to make the necessary changes.

Step 2: Enable the Classic Workspace

To switch to the classic view, type -TOOLBAR in the command line and press Enter. You will be prompted to select a toolbar to display.

1. Enter Standard in the command line.
2. Press Enter twice to confirm your selection.
3. The classic toolbar should now appear at the top of your window, underneath the ribbon.

Step 3: Customize Your Toolbars

With the classic view now enabled, you can further customize your toolbars:

1. Click on the Tools menu located at the top of your screen.
2. Navigate to Toolbars and select AutoCAD.
3. Choose your preferred toolbars and drag them to the left or right side of your workspace as needed.
4. After arranging your toolbars, go back to the Tools menu, select Workspaces, and click on Save Current As. Name your new workspace (e.g., “Classic Workspace”) and click Save to keep your layout.

Step 4: Adjust Menu Bar Visibility

If the classic menu bar is not visible, you can enable it as follows:

1. Type MENUBAR in the command line and press Enter.
2. Set the variable to 1 to display the menu bar.
3. Click OK to save your settings.

Step 5: Check Ribbon Settings

If there’s still a part of the interface you’re not satisfied with, ensure the ribbon is functioning correctly:

1. Type RIBBON on the command line and press Enter.
2. If the ribbon is minimized, click on the cycle button on the right side of the ribbon tabs to reveal more selections.

Step 6: Final Adjustments

Review all toolbars, tabs, and the ribbon to ensure everything is set up to your liking. Adjust any additional settings you may want, such as the layout or specific commands that you often use.

By following these steps, you can effectively transform your AutoCAD environment into a classic view, facilitating a smoother and more familiar drafting experience.

FAQ

1. What versions of AutoCAD can I switch to classic view?
You can switch to classic view in various versions of AutoCAD. While the steps outlined above are applicable to AutoCAD 2025, similar commands have been used in earlier versions like AutoCAD 2015 or 2016.

2. Can I create a custom toolbar in AutoCAD?
Yes, you can create a custom toolbar by accessing the Toolbars menu under the Tools menu. From there, you can add tools you frequently use and organize them according to your preferences.

3. What are the benefits of using the classic workspace in AutoCAD?
The classic workspace provides a more straightforward interface, allowing quicker access to frequently used commands and tools. It can ease the transition for users who are more familiar with earlier versions of AutoCAD, potentially increasing efficiency in drafting tasks.