AutoCAD

How to Save Selected Drawing in AutoCAD?

Understanding the Process to Save Selected Drawings in AutoCAD

Saving a drawing in AutoCAD is essential for retaining your modifications and ensuring that your designs are not lost. If you wish to save a selected layout or drawing section, follow these detailed steps.

Step 1: Open Your Drawing

Start by launching AutoCAD and opening the drawing that you intend to work on. Ensure the layout you want to save is active and visible.

Step 2: Access Layout Tabs

Locate the layout tabs at the bottom of the drawing area. If multiple layouts are available, you’ll need to press and hold the Ctrl key while selecting the different tabs relevant to your project. Highlight the specific layouts you want to save.

Step 3: Publish Selected Layouts

After selecting your desired layouts, right-click on any of the highlighted layout tabs. This action will open a context menu. Choose the option labeled "Publish Selected Layouts." This will take you to the Publish dialog box.

Step 4: Configure PDF Settings

In the Publish dialog box, find the drop-down list labeled "Publish To." From this list, select "PDF" as your output format. You may also configure additional settings such as paper size, plot style, and output resolution to ensure that the final PDF meets your project specifications.

Step 5: Save the PDF

Once you have configured your PDF settings, look for the option to specify the file name and location where the PDF will be saved. Choose a suitable directory and provide an appropriate name for the file. Review all settings once more to ensure everything is correct before proceeding.

Step 6: Execute the Publish Command

Finally, click the "Publish" button in the dialog box. The process may take a few moments, depending on the complexity of the drawing and the specifications you set. Once completed, navigate to the designated folder to confirm that your drawing has been saved as a PDF successfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I save an older AutoCAD drawing file format?
To save a drawing in an earlier format, use the "Save As" option from the Application Menu, select the desired older version from the file format options, and click OK.

Can I save only specific objects in AutoCAD?
Yes, you can use the selection tools to choose specific objects. After making your selection, right-click and choose "Export" or "Save As" to save those selected elements.

Is it necessary to use a specific printer driver when saving to PDF?
When you save to PDF in AutoCAD, it usually utilizes an in-built PDF printer driver. However, you can choose specific settings or a different PDF driver if needed to customize your output.

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.