How to Change Default Drawing Template in AutoCAD?

Understanding AutoCAD Templates

AutoCAD offers a variety of templates that streamline the design process by allowing you to set predefined settings for styles, layouts, and other essential elements. Changing the default drawing template can enhance productivity and ensure consistency across projects.

Why Change the Default Drawing Template

Default drawing templates come with standard settings that may not fit all projects. Changing to a specific template can save time by prefilling commonly used styles, dimensions, and layouts relevant to your current tasks.

Steps to Change the Default Drawing Template in AutoCAD

Step 1: Access the Options Menu

1. Launch AutoCAD 2025.
2. Click on the Application Menu (the big A) located at the top-left corner.
3. From the drop-down menu, navigate to Options. This opens the Options dialog box.

Step 2: Set the Default Template

1. In the Options dialog, select the Files tab.
2. Look for the section labeled Template Settings and expand it by clicking the plus sign (+).
3. Under Drawing Template File Location, click the plus sign (+) again to reveal the file path where templates are stored.
4. To change the default template path, you can input a new location where your preferred templates are saved.

Step 3: Choose Your Template

1. Navigate to the folder containing your desired template file (with a .dwt extension).
2. Open the New Drawing dialog by clicking New on the Quick Access Toolbar or by using the command line and typing NEW.
3. In the dialog, select your desired template from the list and ensure it displays in the Drawing Template File field.

Step 4: Save Default Settings

1. Once your preferred template is selected, click OK to apply the changes.
2. Close the Options dialog box.
3. To verify the changes, create a new drawing and check if the settings align with your selected template.

Tips for Managing Templates

1. Creating Custom Templates:

   • You can create your own custom templates by setting up drawing settings, styles, and layouts according to your needs and saving them as a .dwt file.

2. Organizing Templates:

   • Keep your templates organized in a dedicated folder, making it easier to find the one best suited for your current project.
3. Updating Templates:
   • Regularly update your templates to accommodate new styles or standards. This ensures that projects remain current and efficient.

FAQs

1. How can I find all available templates in AutoCAD?
You can find all available templates in the template folder specified in the Options menu. Simply navigate to Options > Files > Template Settings to view the current file path.

2. Can I share my custom templates with others?
Yes, you can share your custom .dwt files with other AutoCAD users. Simply send them the template files, and they can place them in their designated templates folder.

3. How do I revert to AutoCAD’s default templates?
To revert to AutoCAD’s default settings, go back to the Options dialog, locate the template settings, and reset the locations to AutoCAD’s default template paths, typically found in the installation directory.