AutoCAD

How to Calculate Square Meter in AutoCAD

Understanding Square Meters

Square meters are a standard unit of measure used to express the area of a surface in the metric system. To calculate the area in square meters, one must multiply the length by the width of the space. Both measurements should be in meters for an accurate result. The formula for calculating area in square meters is straightforward:

Area (m²) = Length (m) × Width (m)

Using AutoCAD to Calculate Area

To effectively calculate area in AutoCAD 2025, follow these organized steps:

Step 1: Access the Area Command

Begin by entering the command line. You can activate the area calculation feature by typing “AREA” in the command prompt. Press “Enter” to proceed.

Step 2: Choose Your Calculation Method

After entering the command, AutoCAD will prompt you to select an object or to specify points. You generally have the following options:

  • Select Object: Clicking on an existing shape like a circle, rectangle, or polyline will allow AutoCAD to automatically calculate the area.
  • Object Points: If the object isn’t pre-defined, you can click sequentially to outline the shape for area calculation.

Step 3: Review the Output

Once you’ve selected the object or defined the points, AutoCAD will display the area calculation along with the perimeter of the selected shape directly in the command line area.

Step 4: Additional Calculations

If you wish to calculate the area manually by defining specific points, you can do so by following these steps:

  1. Input the Area command again.
  2. Choose the option for ‘Object’ or define the shape by clicking point-to-point around the perimeter of the closed shape.
  3. After finishing the selection, press “Enter” to view your calculated area.

Measuring Different Shapes

AutoCAD allows the area calculation for a variety of shapes:

  • Rectangles and Squares: For shapes with right angles, simply select the shape and the area will be displayed.
  • Polygons: For closed polylines, use the same area command; make sure the polyline closes to ensure accurate calculations.
  • Circles and Ellipses: Select the circle or ellipse, and the area will automatically be calculated as well.

Inputting Square Meter Symbol in AutoCAD

When working in AutoCAD, you may need to add the square meter symbol (m²) in your text. Follow these steps:

  1. Open the In-Place Text Editor by double-clicking on the text you need to edit.
  2. Right-click, select "Symbol," and choose the squared option.
  3. Alternatively, press Ctrl + Shift + + after typing "m2" to format the ‘2’ as superscript.

FAQs About Calculating Area in AutoCAD

1. Can I calculate areas for non-closed shapes in AutoCAD?

No, AutoCAD requires shapes to be closed to calculate the area accurately. You must ensure that the start and end points of the shape meet to form a complete perimeter.

2. What should I do if the area display doesn’t update?

If the area calculation does not appear, ensure that you have selected the shape properly, and check for any command line prompts that may require your attention.

3. Is it possible to convert square meters to other units in AutoCAD?

Yes, AutoCAD allows you to measure areas in various units. Ensure your drawing units are set correctly in the drawing settings, and you can convert square meters to square feet, acres, etc., using appropriate conversion factors.

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.