AutoCAD

How to Unhide the Command Line in AutoCAD?

Steps to Display the Command Line in AutoCAD

Understanding the Command Line

The Command Line in AutoCAD serves as a crucial interface element that allows users to input commands directly, feedback results, and interact with the drawing environment. If it has been hidden or accidentally closed, it can be quickly restored through several methods.

Method 1: Using the Keyboard Shortcut

  1. Press Ctrl + 9: This keyboard shortcut toggles the visibility of the command line. Simply pressing these keys will either show or hide the command line based on its current state.

Method 2: Accessing the View Tab

  1. Navigate to the View Tab: On the top ribbon in AutoCAD, locate and click on the “View” tab.
  2. Select Palettes Panel: Within the View tab, find the “Palettes” panel.
  3. Choose Command Line: Click on “Command Line” from the dropdown menu. This action will immediately bring the command line back to your workspace.

Method 3: Using the Command Prompt

  1. Activate the Command Prompt: Type COMMANDLINE directly in the prompt area.
  2. Hit Enter: This command will reintroduce the command line if it was previously hidden.

Method 4: Adjusting the Menu Bar Visibility

  1. Access the Quick Access Toolbar: Locate the Quick Access Toolbar at the top of your AutoCAD interface.
  2. Show Menu Bar: Click on the drop-down menu and select “Show Menu Bar.” This option can also toggle various menus that may include your command line.
  3. Optionally, Use MENUBAR Command: If you prefer, type MENUBAR in the command prompt, setting its value to 1 to display the menu bar which may include the command line feature.

Resizing the Command Line

If you have managed to restore the command line but find it too small or large, adjusting its size is straightforward:

  1. Hover Over the Command Line: Move your cursor to the top edge of the command line.
  2. Adjust Size: When a double-headed arrow appears, click and drag to resize the command line to your preferred dimensions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why can’t I see the command line in AutoCAD?
There could be several reasons for the command line’s disappearance, including unintentional closing or changes in the workspace layout. Utilizing the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + 9 is usually the quickest way to restore it.

2. Can the command line be customized?
Yes, users can customize the command line appearance and behavior through the options menu, including adjusting its size and how it interacts with commands.

3. Is there a way to prevent the command line from disappearing again?
To minimize the chance of the command line disappearing, ensure your workspace is saved after making adjustments, or consider docking it in a fixed position within the interface to keep it visible.

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.