AutoCAD

How to Calculate Formula in AutoCAD?

Understanding Formula Calculation in AutoCAD

Calculating formulas in AutoCAD can be a valuable tool for adding efficiency to your design process. Here’s a structured approach to utilize this feature effectively.

Steps to Use Formulas in AutoCAD

  1. Select the Cell
    Begin by clicking on the cell where you wish to input the formula. This could be part of a table or any designated area within your drawing.

  2. Access the Field Tool
    Look for the "Table Cell" contextual ribbon. Within that menu, find and click on the Field option to open the Field dialog.

  3. Choose Field Category
    In the Field dialog, locate the Field Category dropdown. Select Objects from the options available.

  4. Select Formula
    In the Field Names section, navigate and select Formula. This will allow you to input mathematical operations directly.

  5. Input Your Formula
    You can enter your equation in the formula section. Depending on your needs, you can also employ standard arithmetic operators like + (addition), – (subtraction), * (multiplication), and / (division).

  6. Adjusting Format Settings (Optional)
    Before finalizing, you may choose to adjust the format settings and define a decimal separator based on your regional or project requirements.

  7. Confirm and Close
    Once your formula is constructed, click OK to apply and close the dialog.

Summing Values in AutoCAD

  1. Initiate the Summation
    Within the field dialog, select options like Average, Sum, or Count. This action temporarily closes the Field dialog.

  2. Specify the Range
    Click inside the first cell and drag to your desired end cell to define the range of values to be summed up.

  3. Complete the Selection
    Click on the Cell option to return to the Field dialog and finalize your selection.

Calculating Areas in AutoCAD

For calculating areas in AutoCAD, you can employ several tools within the software. To view an instructional resource, you may refer to available video tutorials that detail area calculations using specific commands.

Performing Basic Math Operations

AutoCAD offers multiple ways to execute basic arithmetic:

  • Use the Add command directly by typing it in the command line and selecting the objects.
  • Utilize the Quick Select feature found in the right-click menu to filter objects based on properties.

Working with AutoCAD Commands

  1. Line Command (L)
    Start drawing simple lines within your project using the L command.

  2. Circle Command (C)
    Utilize the C command to create circles quickly.

  3. Polyline Command (PL)
    The PL command allows for the creation of polylines, which are useful in defining complex paths or shapes.

  4. Rectangle Command (REC)
    Create rectangles using the REC command that can be defined by two opposite corners.

  5. Arc, Ellipse, and Other Shapes
    Explore other commands like ARC, ELLIPSE, and REG for additional geometric shapes.

FAQs

What if I need to calculate a complex formula involving multiple operations?
You can indeed input more complex formulas by combining various arithmetic operations. Just make sure to follow the correct order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS).

Can I edit a formula after I’ve created it?
Yes, you can revisit the Field dialog to modify any existing formulas or parameters simply by selecting the cell again and clicking on Field.

Is there a limit to the number of cells I can sum in AutoCAD?
While AutoCAD does not impose explicit limits on the number of cells you can sum, performance may vary based on your system’s capabilities and the complexity of the drawing.

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.