How to Calculate Perimeter AutoCAD

Calculating perimeter in AutoCAD can be essential for various design projects. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of how to accurately determine the perimeter of shapes and areas using AutoCAD 2025.

Understanding the Perimeter Calculation in AutoCAD

The perimeter is the total distance around a shape. AutoCAD provides tools that make it easy to measure the perimeter of various geometric shapes, including polylines and closed shapes.

Method 1: Using the AREA Command

1. Open the Command Line: Begin by ensuring that the command line is visible in your AutoCAD workspace.

2. Initiate the AREA Command: Type the command AREA in the command line and press Enter. This command allows you to measure areas and perimeters of different objects.

3. Select the Object: Upon invoking the AREA command, you will be prompted to select an object. You can either use the Object option or create a freehand perimeter.

4. Using the Object Option:
   • Type O for Object and hit Enter.
   • Click on the closed shape or polyline whose perimeter you wish to calculate.
   • AutoCAD will provide an immediate readout of both the area and perimeter in the command line.

Method 2: Manual Drawing for Perimeter Calculation

1. Select the Polygon Tool: If you are measuring a custom shape, use the Polyline tool to draw the outline of your desired perimeter.

2. Click to Define Points: Click to set the first corner point. A rubberband line will appear, helping you to visualize the outline.

3. Complete the Shape: Continue clicking to add points around your shape, and press Enter when you close the outline.

4. View Results: The area and perimeter of the drawn shape will now be displayed in the command line.

Method 3: Summing Multiple Shapes

If multiple polylines are involved, the process can be slightly adjusted:

1. Set Up the AREA Command: Again, initiate the AREA command.

2. Choose Add Area Option: At the prompt, select the Add Area option to begin the calculation for multiple shapes.

3. Select Objects Sequentially: Click on each shape you wish to include. AutoCAD will highlight these selections to prevent double-clicking.

4. Finalize the Calculation: Once all areas are selected, press Enter. The command line will display the cumulative area and perimeter for the entire selection.

Accessing the Parameters Manager

1. Locate Parameters Manager: Navigate to the Manage panel and click on the Parameters Manager. This tool allows you to handle various attributes related to the geometry.

2. Edit Existing Parameters: Here, view the parameters in the list and click on any parameter you wish to adjust. The associated values can be modified as necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I measure the perimeter of an irregular shape in AutoCAD?
Yes, you can measure the perimeter of an irregular shape by drawing a polyline around it and then using the AREA command to calculate both perimeter and area.

2. Does AutoCAD automatically update perimeter measurements?
Yes, AutoCAD updates perimeter measurements dynamically as you change the shape or size of objects, ensuring that calculations remain accurate.

3. How do I find the perimeter of a shape using a specific tool in AutoCAD?
You can use the LIST command to obtain detailed information, which includes perimeter measurements for selected objects. Simply type LIST, click on the object, and the perimeter will be part of the displayed data.