AutoCAD

How to Change Cursor in AutoCAD 2012?

Changing the Cursor in AutoCAD 2025: A Step-by-Step Guide

AutoCAD allows users to configure their cursor settings, enhancing the drawing experience. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to change your cursor in AutoCAD 2025.

Switching to Isometric Cursor

  1. Access Drafting Settings:

    • Navigate to the Tools menu.
    • Select Drafting Settings from the dropdown. This will open the Drafting Settings dialog box.
  2. Configure Snap Type:
    • Within the Drafting Settings, click on the Snap and Grid tab.
    • Look for the Snap Type section. Here, you can change the current snap setting.
    • Choose Isometric Snap to switch your cursor to an isometric view.
    • Click OK to apply the changes.

Restoring the Cursor

If you find that your cursor has disappeared or is not functioning correctly, follow these steps:

  1. Click on the Ribbon:

    • Left-click anywhere on the ribbon to refresh the interface.
  2. Viewport Controls:

    • Position your mouse over the Viewport Controls located in the upper-left corner of the drawing window.
    • Change the visual style to see if the cursor reappears.
  3. Switch Between Tabs:

    • Toggle between model and layout tabs to reset the cursor display.
  4. Minimize and Restore:

    • Minimize AutoCAD, then restore it to force a refresh.
  5. Close and Reopen:

    • If the issue persists, close the drawing and reopen it.
  6. Restart AutoCAD:
    • Exit the application completely, then relaunch it.

Changing the Cursor Color

To personalize your AutoCAD experience, you can alter the cursor color:

  1. OPEN OPTIONS:

    • Right-click within the drawing area and select Options from the context menu, or navigate to the Application menu and choose Options.
  2. DRAFTING TAB:

    • In the Options dialog box, go to the Drafting tab.
  3. Adjust AutoSnap Settings:

    • Locate the AutoSnap Settings section and click on the Colors button.
  4. Customize Colors:
    • In the Drawing Window Colors section, choose Command Line from the Context box and select Active Prompt Text from the Interface Element box.
    • Pick your desired color from the available options.

Reverting to Standard Cursor

If you wish to return to the standard cursor from an isometric one, follow these instructions:

  1. Access Snap Settings:

    • Click the SNAP button located on the status bar.
  2. Switch to Rectangular Snap:

    • Select Settings, and in the ensuing menu, switch from Isometric Snap to Rectangular Snap.
  3. Use the Command Line:

    • Alternatively, type the SNAP command followed by Style, then choose Standard.
  4. Toggle Isometric Views:
    • Press F5 to toggle between different isometric views if needed.

FAQ

Q1: Why is my AutoCAD cursor lagging?
A: Cursor lag can occur due to hardware limitations or software settings. Ensure your graphics drivers are up-to-date and check the AutoCAD performance settings.

Q2: Can I customize the crosshair size in AutoCAD?
A: Yes, you can adjust the crosshair size by going to the Display tab in the Options dialog. Here, you can set the size of the crosshair to your preference.

Q3: What should I do if my cursor is not snapping correctly?
A: Press F3 to toggle Osnap on or off. Make sure Osnap settings are activated (use the OSNAP command) and ensure that objects are on the same plane.

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.