AutoCAD

How to Delete Polyline in AutoCAD?

Understanding Polyline Management in AutoCAD

When working in AutoCAD, manipulating polylines is a common task that requires understanding how to delete, modify, and manage these entities effectively. Here’s a detailed guide on how to delete a polyline in AutoCAD.

Deleting a Polyline Using the Erase Command

  1. Access the Command: Start by selecting the Home tab located on the ribbon at the top of your screen. Then, click on the Modify panel.

  2. Initiate Erase Command: Click on the Erase button. Alternatively, you can simply type E or Erase into the command line and press Enter.

  3. Select the Polyline: You will be prompted to select the objects you wish to delete. Click on the polyline you want to erase. You can select multiple objects by dragging a window around them or by clicking on them individually.

  4. Confirm Deletion: After you’ve selected the polyline, press Enter. This confirms the operation and deletes the selected polyline from your drawing.

Using the Trim Command to Delete Parts of a Polyline

  1. Access the Trim Command: Go to the Home tab, select the Modify panel, and click on Trim. You can also type TR into the command line.

  2. Select Cutting Edges: When prompted, specify any objects that will act as cutting edges. Click on the polyline itself or any other relevant lines.

  3. Trim the Polyline: Now, select the parts of the polyline you wish to remove. Once selected, press Enter to complete the trimming.

Alternative: Using the Delete Key for Quick Deletion

  1. Select the Polyline: Click on the polyline you wish to delete. Holding down the Shift key allows for multiple selections.

  2. Delete the Polyline: Press the Delete key on your keyboard. This will remove the selected polyline immediately without needing any additional commands.

Undoing Deletion Actions

If you accidentally delete a polyline or make a mistake:

  1. Access the Undo Command: Type U or Undo in the command line and press Enter.

  2. Revert the Last Action: This will backtrack your last action, restoring any polyline you might have inadvertently deleted.

FAQs

1. How can I check if a polyline is closed in AutoCAD?
To verify if a polyline is closed, select the polyline and check its properties panel. Look for an option labeled "Closed"; it will indicate whether the polyline forms a complete loop.

2. Is it possible to recover deleted polylines?
Yes, using the OOPS command will allow you to restore the last erased objects, including polylines. Just type OOPS in the command line and hit Enter.

3. Can multiple polylines be deleted at once?
You can delete multiple polylines simultaneously by either selecting them with a crossing window or by holding the Shift key to add selections and then using the Erase command or the Delete key.

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.