Basic AutoCAD Customization: Using the CUI to Tailor the Quick Access Toolbar – AutoCAD Blog

Understanding the Quick Access Toolbar in AutoCAD

The Quick Access Toolbar (QAT) in AutoCAD provides users with efficient access to frequently used commands. Customizing this toolbar can significantly enhance productivity. By understanding how to utilize the Customize User Interface (CUI) editor, users can tailor the QAT to better suit their individual workflows.

Benefits of Customizing the QAT

Customizing the QAT allows for a more streamlined interface that caters to the specific needs of the user. Unlike the default settings, personalizing the toolbar enables quick access to tools and commands, minimizing the time spent searching through menus. Users can add, remove, and organize tools to create a personalized workspace that enhances efficiency.

Accessing the CUI Editor

The CUI editor serves as the main interface for customizing various elements within AutoCAD, including the QAT. This powerful tool provides options for creating new toolbars, modifying existing ones, and organizing commands as per user preference.

To open the CUI editor:

1. Navigate to the "Manage" tab in the ribbon.
2. Select "Customize" from the drop-down list.

Familiarizing oneself with the layout of the CUI editor may seem daunting at first, but exploration will lead to greater confidence over time.

Customization Options Available in the CUI Editor

Within the CUI editor, users can perform several tasks related to QAT customization:

• Create and Delete Toolbars: Users can create new QATs or delete existing ones from the currently loaded CUIx file.
• Add and Remove Tools: The editor allows the addition or removal of various tools, icons, and drop-down menus, enabling a comprehensive customization experience.
• Reorganize and Group Commands: Users can easily drag items within the QAT node to change their order or group related tools together for better accessibility.
• Assign Toolbars to Workspaces: Customize different QATs to correspond with specific workspaces defined within the AutoCAD environment.

Modifying the Current Quick Access Toolbar

While the default QAT provides a basic set of tools, the CUI editor allows access to a wider variety of options.

Step-by-Step Guide for Customizing the QAT:

1. Open the CUI editor and locate the "Customizations In" pane.
2. Identify the current QAT.
3. To add tools, drag commands from the "Command List" pane to the QAT node.
4. To arrange tools, click and drag them to the desired position within the QAT node.
5. To group tools, insert a separator by right-clicking on the desired tool and selecting "Insert Separator."
6. For creating a drop-down menu, right-click on the QAT node and choose "New Drop-down." Drag desired commands into this menu for easy access.

Creating a New Quick Access Toolbar

Establishing multiple QATs allows users to maintain a default toolbar while also customizing others for different tasks.

Steps to Create a New QAT:

1. Open the CUI editor.
2. Navigate to the QAT section and choose "New."
3. Rename the QAT to your desired title, such as "My Custom QAT."
4. Customize this new toolbar by adding tools and arranging them according to your workflow requirements.

Organizing Tools Effectively

To improve the usability of the QAT:

• Reorganize Tools: Drag and drop tools to reposition them. The order of appearance on the QAT will reflect their arrangement in the CUI editor.
• Use Separators: Insert visual dividers to categorize tools, facilitating quicker access to relevant commands.

Removing Unwanted Tools

To keep the QAT uncluttered:

1. Right-click on the tool you wish to remove.
2. Select "Remove" (or "Delete" for separators) from the context menu.
3. Confirm the action in the dialog box that appears.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I customize my QAT in AutoCAD 2025 without using the CUI editor?
Yes, you can access some basic customization options through the QAT itself, but using the CUI editor offers much greater flexibility and control.

2. Is it possible to revert to the default QAT settings once I have customized it?
Yes, the CUI editor allows you to restore the default settings or delete your customizations, reverting your toolbar to its original state.

3. Can I create multiple QATs for different projects or phases of my work?
Absolutely. Creating multiple QATs enables you to tailor tool sets for specific projects or workflows, enhancing your efficiency in AutoCAD.