AutoCAD

How To Calculate Length Of Many Lines In AutoCAD?

Understanding How to Measure Lengths in AutoCAD

When working with multiple lines in AutoCAD, calculating their total length can be achieved through various methods. Here is a detailed guide on how to do this efficiently.

Method 1: Using the Command Line

  1. Select Objects: Begin by opening your drawing in AutoCAD 2025. Use the selection tool to click on the lines whose lengths you wish to calculate.

  2. Command Input: Activate the Command Line by pressing Ctrl + 9 if it’s not already open. Type “LIST” in the command bar and press Enter.

  3. Review Results: After hitting Enter, the total length of the selected lines will be displayed in the Command Line as well as in a pop-up window. Look for the dimensions given in your drawing units, which can be set to either feet or meters based on your preferences.

Method 2: Utilizing Object Properties

  1. Open Properties Window: Select a line or polyline in your drawing. If the Properties panel isn’t visible, activate it by pressing Ctrl + 1.

  2. Locate Length: In the Properties panel, you will see various attributes of the selected object. Look for the “Length” property, which will give you the measurement of the selected line or polyline directly.

  3. Sum Multiple Lengths: To find the total length of multiple segments, repeat this process for each line. Manually add the lengths together for the total calculation.

Method 3: Using QuickCalc

  1. Launch QuickCalc: Press Ctrl + 8 to open the QuickCalc calculator tool.

  2. Pick Points for Measurement: Use the “Measure” function to click on corresponding points along the lines you wish to measure. Each selection will add to the total length being calculated.

  3. View Total: The QuickCalc tool will continuously update to show the cumulative length as you select different segments.

Method 4: Using the Measure Tool

  1. Select Measure Tool: Navigate to the Review tab in the ribbon, and find the Measure panel. Click on the “Measure” dropdown and choose the “Length” option.

  2. Select Points: Click to set the start point and then the end point of the lines or segments you wish to measure. Continue this process until you have covered all necessary segments of your drawing.

  3. Check Result: The total length measured will be displayed, giving you an instant overview of the selected paths.

FAQs

1. How do I change the measurement units in AutoCAD 2025?
To change measurement units, type UNITS in the Command Line, press Enter, and choose your preferred Unit Type from the options available (such as decimal, engineering, etc.).

2. Can I measure curves and arcs in AutoCAD as well?
Yes, the measurement tools in AutoCAD can also be utilized for curves and arcs. When selecting a curved object, the length will be displayed just like straight lines.

3. Is there a way to batch calculate lengths for multiple objects at once?
Indeed, the “LIST” command allows you to select multiple objects to display their lengths individually, and you can sum them manually. Alternatively, using the Properties panel can also aggregate data efficiently.

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.