How Do I Change AutoCAD to Classic View?

Changing AutoCAD to Classic View

Switching AutoCAD to the classic view can enhance your experience by providing a more traditional layout that some users prefer. If you’re using AutoCAD 2025, follow these detailed steps to revert to the classic workspace.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Access Workspaces:

   • Start by navigating to the top menu. Look for the "Tools" option.
   • Click on it to reveal a dropdown menu, and find the "Workspaces" option.

2. Save Your Current Workspace:

   • Before making any changes, it’s a good practice to save your current workspace. Choose "Save Current As" from the Workspaces menu.
   • In the dialog box that appears, enter a name to save your current settings, then click "Save".

3. Select Classic Workspace:

   • Again, go to the "Tools" menu and this time select "Workspaces" from the dropdown.
   • As you explore the available workspaces, look for "AutoCAD Classic".

4. Activate AutoCAD Classic:

   • Click on "AutoCAD Classic" to switch to that workspace.
   • Your interface should now adjust to the classic layout, showing the familiar toolbars like the Menu Bar, Toolbars, and the command line at the bottom.

5. Dock Toolbars:

   • You might need to arrange the toolbars to your preference. Right-click on a toolbar area or utilize the "Toolbars" option in the "Tools" menu.
   • Choose the toolbars you want and drag them to dock them at your preferred locations (left, right, or top).

6. Adjust Command Line:

   • If the command line is not visible, you can enable it by right-clicking in an empty area of the interface or by typing "command line" in the command prompt.
7. Finalize Workspace:
   • Once you have the interface set to your liking with the classic view, it’s wise to save these settings. Return to "Tools" → "Workspaces" → "Save Current As" and save again to ensure you can easily revert to this layout in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I switch back to the modern interface?
   Yes, you can always return to the current interface by selecting it from the Workspaces menu under the "Tools" section. Simply choose the relevant workspace to revert.

2. What are the benefits of using the classic view?
   The classic view provides a more straightforward and familiar layout for users who have been working with AutoCAD for many years, particularly those who prefer the traditional menus and toolbars over the ribbon interface.

3. Will switching to the classic view affect my projects?
   No, changing your workspace layout does not affect the integrity of your projects. It merely alters the way tools and features are displayed and accessed. Your work remains unchanged.