AutoCAD

How to Get Command Line in AutoCAD 2016?

Accessing the Command Line in AutoCAD 2025

Retrieving the command line in AutoCAD 2025 can greatly enhance your drawing efficiency. The command line is essential for executing commands and receiving prompts, providing a streamlined workflow. Here’s how to enable it step-by-step.

Step-by-Step Guide to Display the Command Line

  1. Using Keyboard Shortcuts:

    • Press CTRL + 9 if you’re working on Windows. This shortcut toggles the command line display on and off effortlessly.
    • For Mac users, the equivalent is CMD + 3.
  2. Navigating Through the Menu:

    • If the shortcut doesn’t work, you can manually retrieve the command line.
    • Go to the top of your workspace and locate the View tab.
    • Click on it and navigate to the Palettes section.
    • Select Command Line from the dropdown menu. This action will make the command line visible again.
  3. Check Command Line Visibility:
    • Ensure the command line box is not docked or minimized. If it is, hovering over the edge will allow you to resize or reposition it.

Customizing the Command Line

  1. Resizing the Command Line:

    • Hover your cursor over the top edge of the command line until a double-headed arrow appears. Click and drag up or down to adjust the size according to your preference.
  2. Positioning the Command Line:

    • You can move the command line to various areas of your workspace. Simply click and drag it to your desired location. This flexibility allows you to arrange your workspace to suit your workflow.
  3. Changing Command Line Settings:
    • Right-click on the command line for additional options. Here, you can choose settings like transparency and size to make it more user-friendly.

Command Line Functionality

Understanding the command line’s functionality is essential for efficient use of AutoCAD.

  • Entering Commands: You can type full command names directly into the command line and hit Enter. If command completion is activated, simply starting to type the command may suggest possible commands.

  • Using Command Aliases: AutoCAD allows the use of shorthand commands known as aliases. For instance, typing L quickly executes the Line command without the need to type the full word.

Troubleshooting Command Line Issues

If the command line is not appearing as expected:

  1. Toggle Menubar:

    • Press F10 to enable the menu bar if it is not visible. Once the menu bar appears, navigate to the View tab, go to Toolbars, and ensure that Command Line is enabled by clicking it.
  2. Resetting the User Interface:
    • If issues persist, consider resetting your interface settings. To do this, you might need to load the default workspace configurations. This can often resolve visibility issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I customize the command line appearance?

  • You can right-click on the command line to access options for customizing its appearance, including changing its size and opacity settings.

2. Why can’t I see my command line after maximizing the AutoCAD window?

  • Sometimes, the command line may be docked off-screen when you maximize the window. Using the keyboard shortcut CTRL + 9 should toggle its visibility.

3. Can I use the command line to modify settings in AutoCAD?

  • Yes, many settings and commands can be modified directly through the command line by typing commands such as OPTIONS or PREFS to bring up relevant setting menus.

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.