How to Change AutoCAD Command?

Changing AutoCAD Commands: A Step-by-Step Guide

Modifying commands in AutoCAD can streamline your workflow and enhance productivity. The process varies slightly depending on the version of AutoCAD you are using. Below are detailed steps for adjusting command aliases and shortcuts in AutoCAD 2025.

Adjusting Command Aliases in AutoCAD 2025

1. Access the Command Alias Editor
   Open AutoCAD and navigate to the Manage tab on the ribbon. Locate the Customization panel, then select Edit Aliases followed by Edit Aliases again.

2. Editing the PGP File
   The PGP (Programable Graphic Pictorial) file will open in Notepad. This file contains the command aliases you can modify.

3. Modify Command Aliases
   Look for the section where existing aliases are listed. To add a new alias, follow the syntax of the existing commands. For instance:

   ALIAS = original_command

   Replace ALIAS with your desired shortcut and original_command with the command it will execute.

4. Save Changes
   Close Notepad and make sure to save your changes.

5. Reinitialize the PGP File
   Go back to the command line in AutoCAD. Type REINIT, select the option for PGP File, and confirm by clicking OK. This step ensures that your changes take effect immediately.

Customizing Keyboard Shortcuts in AutoCAD 2025

1. Open the Customize User Interface (CUI)
   In the Tools menu, navigate to Customize and select Interface (CUI).

2. Access the Shortcut Keys Tab
   In the CUI dialog box, select the Shortcuts tab. This section displays all default shortcut keys assigned to various commands.

3. Add or Modify a Shortcut Key
   To add a new shortcut, locate the command you wish to assign a shortcut to, and click on it. You can then enter your desired key combination by selecting the Key(s) field and pressing your chosen key combination (like Ctrl + Alt + N).

4. Apply and Save Changes
   After making the necessary adjustments, click Apply and then OK to save.

Creating Custom Commands in AutoCAD 2025

1. Navigate to the Command List Pane
   In the Customize tab, look for the Command List pane.

2. Create a New Command
   Click on the Create a New Command button. A new command entry will be generated in both the Command List and Properties pane.

3. Define the Command
   In the Properties pane, specify the name for your custom command in the Name box. You may also define additional properties and functionalities as needed.

4. Finalize Your Custom Command
   Click on Apply to save your new command.

Finding the PGP File Location

To locate the PGP file used for command aliases in AutoCAD, navigate to the following directory:

• Open File Explorer.
• Access your User Folder (C:\Users\[YourUsername]).
• Navigate to AppData > Roaming > Autodesk > AutoCAD 2025 > Support. Here, you will find acad.pgp.

FAQs

What is a command alias in AutoCAD?
A command alias is a shorthand version of a longer command name that can be typed in the command line, allowing for quicker access to frequently used functions.

Can I modify existing command aliases?
Yes, you can easily change existing command aliases in the PGP file by following the aforementioned steps for accessing and editing the file.

How do I revert to default settings in AutoCAD?
To restore your AutoCAD settings to default, navigate to the Options menu and select the Profiles tab. From there, you can create a new profile or reset an existing one to the default settings.