AutoCAD

How To Turn Off Iso Mode In AutoCAD?

Understanding Isometric Mode in AutoCAD

Isometric drawing in AutoCAD allows you to create three-dimensional objects in a two-dimensional plane. When you’re working in isometric mode, your cursor aligns to the three planes available: Isoplane Top, Isoplane Right, and Isoplane Left. However, there may be occasions when you need to switch back to standard 2D drafting. This article provides detailed instructions on how to turn off Iso mode in AutoCAD.

Steps to Disable Isometric Mode

  1. Access the Drafting Settings:

    • Locate the Tools menu at the top of your AutoCAD interface.
    • Click on it to reveal a dropdown menu, then select Drafting Settings.
  2. Navigate to the Snap and Grid Tab:

    • In the Drafting Settings dialog box that appears, you will see several tabs at the top. Click on the Snap and Grid tab.
  3. Adjust Snap Type:

    • Look for the Snap Type section within this tab. By default, this may show “Isometric Snap.”
    • Change this setting to either Standard Snap or Grid Snap, depending on your drafting needs. This action will disable isometric snapping.
  4. Confirm Changes:

    • Once you have selected your preferred snap type, click the OK button to confirm the changes and close the dialog box.
  5. Verify Iso Mode Status:

    • To ensure that Isometric Mode is disabled, observe your cursor movement in the drawing area. It should now move freely in standard 2D directions rather than aligning to isometric angles.

Alternative Method to Disable Isometric Mode

  1. Toggle Dynamic Input:

    • Press the F12 key on your keyboard. This toggles Dynamic Input on and off. If it is already turned on, pressing this key will turn it off, assisting in switching out of Iso mode.
  2. Change Isoplane Using the F5 Key:

    • If you wish to switch between isoplanes temporarily but stay ready to return to standard drafting, press the F5 key. Although this changes the isoplane, pressing it repeatedly can eventually help you transition back to standard mode.

Resetting Your Workspace

If you’re finding it challenging to switch from isometric back to 2D drafting, consider resetting your workspace:

  1. Return to Default Workspace:

    • Click on the Workspace Switching button located on the status bar.
    • From the dropdown options, select Drafting and Annotation to reset the workspace to its standard state. This can help clear any unwanted settings, including isometric options.
  2. Check Command Line:

    • Alternatively, you can type ISODRAFT in the command line and set it to “OFF.” This command allows you to quickly disable isometric drafting from anywhere in the AutoCAD environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different Isoplane options in AutoCAD?
AutoCAD provides three Isoplanes: Isoplane Top, Isoplane Right, and Isoplane Left. You can switch between them using the F5 key.

How can I check if I’m in Isometric Mode?
You can verify if you are in Iso mode by observing the cursor alignment when drawing lines. If the line aligns at angles of 30 degrees to the axes, you are in isometric.

Is it possible to draw circles in Isometric mode?
Yes, circles appear as ellipses in isometric drawings. To represent exact dimensions, specific techniques must be employed to ensure accuracy.

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.