AutoCAD

Which AutoCAD Symbols Used to Censor Words

Understanding AutoCAD Symbols for Censoring Words

AutoCAD is widely recognized for its robust drafting capabilities, but it also offers an array of symbols that can effectively censor or mask specific words within technical drawings and documentation. Here is a detailed guide on how to utilize these symbols.

How to Insert Symbols in AutoCAD

  1. Using the In-Place Text Editor:

    • Start by activating the In-Place Text Editor within your project.
    • Right-click anywhere in the text field you want to edit, and select the Symbol option from the context menu.
    • Alternatively, navigate to the Text Formatting toolbar and click on Symbol to access a selection of available symbols.
  2. Alternate Methods:

    • A convenient approach is to utilize the Character Map feature in Windows. Open Character Map, select the desired symbol, and copy it to your clipboard. You can then paste it directly into your AutoCAD text box.
    • You can also input special characters using control codes or Unicode strings. For Unicode, remember to prefix the string with a backslash to ensure proper recognition.

Locating Symbols Within AutoCAD

To find a comprehensive list of symbols in AutoCAD, follow these steps:

  1. Accessing the Ribbon:

    • Go to the View tab on the Ribbon panel.
    • In the Palettes panel, you can launch the symbol palettes, which provide a variety of useful symbols, including those for censoring.
  2. Keyboard Shortcut:

    • For quick access, use the shortcut CTRL+3. This will open the palettes and allow you to browse through multiple symbols available for use.

Censoring Words Using Specific Symbols

Certain symbols can be effectively used to censor words. Commonly used options include:

  • *Asterisk ():** Often employed to mask letters in a word, giving the appearance of censorship.
  • Hash (#): Used for a similar purpose, it can replace unwanted letters and obscure content.

Adjust Text Visibility

If textual elements are not visible due to AutoCAD settings, you can adjust them by following these steps:

  1. Open Options:

    • Right-click within the drawing area and select Options.
  2. Adjust Display Settings:

    • In the Options dialog box, navigate to the Display tab.
    • Under Display Performance, you will find options to modify text boundaries, ensuring that your text appears as intended.
  3. Regenerate the Drawing:

    • After making changes, type regen at the Command prompt to refresh and update your drawing.

Quick Reference for Text Symbols

For specific symbol types commonly used in AutoCAD:

  • Diameter Symbol (Ø): You can type it using the Alt code Alt+0216.
  • Radius Symbol (∠): Often represented graphically within technical drawings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I ensure the correct symbol is displayed in my AutoCAD project?
To ensure symbols display correctly, confirm that the necessary font files are installed and available within AutoCAD. If prompted about missing fonts, resolve these issues via the font settings.

2. Are there any keyboard shortcuts for common symbols?
Yes, you can often use Alt codes for common symbols. Make sure your Num Lock is activated, then hold the Alt key while typing the numeric code on the keypad.

3. What should I do if my text annotations are not appearing?
If your text annotations aren’t showing, check the text settings in the Options dialog. Ensure you have the right layer visibility and that no isolation settings are obscuring the text. You can use the End Object Isolation command to view all objects if necessary.

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.