AutoCAD

How to Change Export Layout in AutoCAD?

Understanding Export Layout in AutoCAD

Exporting layouts in AutoCAD allows users to save their work in various formats for further use, sharing, or printing. If you want to change or modify your layout export settings, follow these detailed steps.

Steps to Export Layout in AutoCAD

  1. Access the Layout Tab
    Navigate to the layout tab at the bottom of your drawing area. Click on the specific layout you wish to export. Each tab corresponds to a different layout you’ve created.

  2. Activate the Context Menu
    Right-click on the layout tab you selected. This will bring up a context menu with various options related to layout management.

  3. Select Export Option
    From the context menu, choose the option that says “Export Layout To Model.” This option enables you to save your layout in a way that retains its structure and elements.

  4. Choose the Destination Folder
    A dialog box will appear, prompting you to select a folder where you want the exported layout to be saved. Navigate to your desired location.

  5. Enter a Filename
    In the provided field, type a suitable name for your exported layout. Ensure that it is descriptive enough for easy identification later.

  6. Select File Type and Save
    After entering the filename, confirm the file type if applicable, then click the ‘Save’ button. Your layout will now be exported, and you can navigate to the specified folder to access your saved file.

Additional Procedures for Layout Exports

Exporting to Different Formats

When exporting, you may want to convert your layout into other formats such as PDF or DXF. To do this:

  1. Open the Publish Command
    Click on the ‘File’ menu and select ‘Publish’. Alternatively, you can type the command PUBLISH in the command prompt.

  2. Select Layouts
    In the Publish dialog, hold down the Ctrl key to select multiple layouts if needed. You can click on the individual layout tabs that you want to include.

  3. Set Output Options
    In the ‘Publish To’ dropdown menu, choose your desired file format: PDF, DWG, or DXF.

  4. Configure Settings (optional)
    Customize any additional settings for your export, such as quality and scale, and then click ‘Publish’ to finalize.

How to Modify Template for Export

If you’re looking to change the layout template before exporting, here’s how you can do that:

  1. Command Input for Layout
    Type layout in the command prompt to access layout settings.

  2. Save Current Layout as Template
    At the next prompt, input sa to save the current layout as a new template.

  3. Provide Template Name
    Enter a name for the layout template that captures its purpose.

  4. Create Drawing Template File
    In the following dialog, specify a filename for the drawing template and choose the file type as “Drawing Template File (*.dwt)”. Click ‘Save’ to create the new template.

  5. Set New Template for Future Exports
    Use the newly created template for your future exports to retain consistency in formatting and layout.

FAQs

1. What file types can I export my layout to in AutoCAD?
You can export layouts to several file types, including DWG, DXF, and PDF, depending on your needs and the version of AutoCAD you are using.

2. Can I export multiple layouts at once?
Yes, by holding the Ctrl key, you can select multiple layouts and export them all together using the publish feature.

3. How do I know what settings to choose when exporting?
The settings you choose will depend on the intended use of the exported file. For printing, you might opt for higher resolution, while for sharing, a standard PDF format is usually sufficient.

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.