AutoCAD

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How to Change Commands in AutoCAD 2020?

If you need to refer to an earlier version, just replace “AutoCAD 2020” with “AutoCAD 2025.”

Understanding Command Customization in AutoCAD 2025

Changing commands in AutoCAD can significantly enhance your workflow and improve efficiency. The following guide outlines the steps to create, modify, and manage commands within the AutoCAD environment specifically for the 2025 version.

Setting Up New Commands

  1. Access the Customize Menu: Begin by selecting the Customize tab. This can typically be found in the interface where various customization options are available for commands.

  2. Create a New Command: In the Command List pane, locate and click on the “Create a New Command” button. A new command entry, often labeled as Command1 by default, will appear in both the Command List and the Properties pane.

  3. Modify Command Properties: To personalize this command, navigate to the Properties pane. Here, you will find a field labeled “Name.” Click in this box and type your desired command name that will help you easily identify it later.

  4. Save Changes: After you’ve entered a new name, click on the “Apply” button to ensure your changes are saved.

Adjusting Shortcut Keys

  1. Open the Start Menu: To change shortcut keys, first, access your Start menu from the desktop.

  2. Locate the Program: Navigate to the All Programs section and find the AutoCAD application you wish to modify.

  3. Access Properties: Right-click on the program file and select “Properties” from the context menu.

  4. Shortcut Key Settings: In the Properties window, look for the text box labeled “Shortcut key.” Click inside this box and type the new hotkey you wish to assign to the program.

  5. Finalize Changes: Once you’ve entered the key combination, click “OK” to save your changes.

Modifying Shortcut Keys for AutoCAD 2025

  1. Drag and Drop Commands: To create a new shortcut key from an existing command, go to the Command List pane and drag a command to the Shortcut Keys section within the Customizations in pane.

  2. Select an Existing Shortcut: To modify an existing shortcut, find the shortcut key entry listed under the Shortcut Keys node and select it.

Customizing Commands in AutoCAD 2025

  1. Open the CUI Dialog: To change existing commands, go to the Tools menu, select Customize, and then choose Interface (CUI).

  2. Navigate to Shortcuts: Once the CUI dialog is open, click on the Shortcuts tab and view the default shortcut keys available.

  3. Add or Modify Shortcuts: Here, you can add new shortcut keys or modify existing ones by selecting a shortcut and editing its properties as needed.

Hotkeys and Function Keys

  • Function Key Usage: Understanding how to effectively use function keys can also enhance your productivity:
    • F3: Toggles the object snap feature.
    • F4: Activates 3D object snaps.
    • F5: Switches between different 2D isoplanes.
    • F6: Enables dynamic UCS for easier object manipulation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I revert to the default commands after customizing?

Yes, you can revert to default settings by accessing the CUI dialog and selecting options to restore to factory settings or default command configurations.

2. How do I find the command alias file (PGP file) in AutoCAD?

You can locate the PGP file by navigating to your user folder, then entering the AppData or Application Data directory, followed by Roaming > Autodesk > Support. This file can be opened with a text editor for viewing or editing command aliases.

3. Is it possible to share customized commands with colleagues?

Absolutely. Customized command configurations can be exported from the CUI dialog, allowing you to share your setup with others by importing it into their AutoCAD environment.

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.