How To Turn Off Command Prompt In AutoCAD?

Understanding Command Prompt in AutoCAD

The command prompt in AutoCAD is a powerful tool that allows users to input commands directly. For users who prefer a sleeker interface or simply wish to reduce visual clutter, it may be beneficial to turn off or hide the command prompt. This guide provides detailed steps on how to achieve this in AutoCAD 2025.

Steps to Hide the Command Prompt in AutoCAD

Step 1: Access Options Menu

1. Launch AutoCAD 2025 and ensure your drawing environment is set up.
2. Click on the Application menu located at the top-left corner of the window (the big ‘A’ icon).

Step 2: Navigate to Options

1. From the drop-down menu, select Options.
2. A dialog box labeled Options will appear on your screen.

Step 3: Customize User Preferences

1. Within the Options dialog box, locate the User Preferences tab.
2. Scroll to find the Command Line settings or look specifically for options related to visibility.

Step 4: Disable Command Line

1. Uncheck the box next to "Show Command Line" to hide the command prompt.
2. Confirm your changes by clicking OK to exit the Options dialog.

Step 5: Verify Changes

1. Return to your drawing area and observe that the command prompt is no longer visible.
2. You can still access commands using the keyboard, as the command prompt will work in the background.

Alternative Method to Change Command Line Display

Using Keyboard Shortcuts

1. Press Ctrl + 9 to quickly toggle the command line on and off. This shortcut is an efficient way to manage the visibility of the command prompt without diving into menus.

Adjusting Transparency (if necessary)

1. If you wish to keep the command line on but make it less obtrusive, you can adjust its transparency.
2. Click the Customize button near the command line prompt.
3. Select Transparency from the options provided.
4. Adjust the transparency slider to your preference and click OK.

FAQs

Q1: Will hiding the command prompt affect my ability to use commands?
No, you can still issue commands using keyboard shortcuts or by selecting icons from the toolbars.

Q2: How do I bring the command prompt back after hiding it?
You can reopen the command prompt by navigating back to the Options menu and checking the “Show Command Line” option or by pressing Ctrl + 9.

Q3: What if I want to keep the command prompt visible but reduce its size?
AutoCAD does not allow resizing the command prompt itself, but you can adjust the display settings (like transparency) to make it less obtrusive as described earlier.