AutoCAD

How to Change Keyboard Commands in AutoCAD 2021?

Understanding Keyboard Commands in AutoCAD 2021

Accessing the Customize Tab

To begin modifying keyboard commands in AutoCAD 2021, first navigate to the Customize tab within the application. This can typically be found in the top menu.

Locating Keyboard Shortcuts

Once you’re in the Customize tab, locate the Customizations In pane. Within this section, you should find a designated node for Keyboard Shortcuts. This is where all keyboard command configurations reside.

Filtering Keyboard Shortcuts

In the Shortcuts pane, utilize the filter options to organize the types of keyboard shortcuts visible to you. You can select options such as All Keys, Accelerator Keys, or Temporary Override Keys from the drop-down menu to specify the command types you want to manage.

Modifying Existing Shortcuts

  1. Find the specific keyboard shortcut you wish to change from the list provided.
  2. Click on the row corresponding to that shortcut. This action brings up the properties associated with that command.
  3. To change the existing key combination, simply hold down your desired new key combination. Alternatively, you can use the Backspace key to reset the shortcut or Esc to cancel any changes if you hesitate.

Creating New Shortcuts

If you want to create a new keyboard shortcut for a command:

  1. Again, head to the Command List pane within the Customize tab.
  2. Drag the command you want from the Command List and drop it into the Shortcut Keys section.
  3. Ensure you define a new key combination for your newly created shortcut.

Applying Changes

Remember, after you’ve made your modifications or created new shortcuts, click the Apply button at the bottom of the pane to save your changes. This ensures that your keyboard commands are updated and will function as intended in future sessions.

Viewing Current Shortcuts

If you want an overview of all the existing keyboard shortcuts:
Press Ctrl + Alt + ? on your keyboard. This brings up the shortcut overview, allowing you to quickly search for any command you want to know more about.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I reset keyboard shortcuts to default settings?
Yes, you can reset your keyboard shortcuts back to their original settings. This option is usually available in the customization tab.

2. Are there different types of keyboard shortcuts available in AutoCAD?
Indeed, AutoCAD includes various types, such as All Keys, Accelerator Keys, and Temporary Override Keys, each serving different functions and user preferences.

3. What should I do if my keyboard shortcuts are not working?
If your keyboard shortcuts are unresponsive, ensure that they haven’t been inadvertently changed or overridden in the Customizations section. You may also need to restart AutoCAD for changes to take effect fully.

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.