AutoCAD

How To Create New Shortcut In AutoCAD

Understanding Shortcuts in AutoCAD

Creating custom shortcuts in AutoCAD can help streamline your workflow, allowing for quicker access to commands you use frequently. Follow this detailed guide to establish new shortcuts in AutoCAD efficiently.

Step-by-Step Guide to Create New Shortcuts in AutoCAD

Step 1: Access the Alias Editor

  • Begin by launching AutoCAD.
  • Navigate to the Manage tab located on the ribbon at the top of the screen.
  • Select Customization and then click on Edit Aliases. This action opens the PGP file, which contains the alias commands.

Step 2: Modify the PGP File

  • The PGP file will display in Notepad or a similar text editor. Here, you can define new commands or modify existing ones.
  • To add a new command alias, type your desired alias followed by the command you wish to link it to. For instance, entering ZZ could be an alias for the ZOOM command. Use the following format:

    Alias Command

Step 3: Save Your Changes

  • After adding or modifying your aliases, save the changes in Notepad. Ensure to maintain the original file structure.

Step 4: Reinitialize the Alias

  • Return to AutoCAD and access the command line.
  • Type REINIT and press Enter.
  • In the pop-up dialog, ensure the PGP File option is selected, then click OK. This reinitializes AutoCAD with your newly defined shortcut settings.

Customizing Shortcut Keys in AutoCAD

If you want to personalize shortcut keys for various AutoCAD commands, follow these steps:

Step 1: Locate the Application Properties

  • Open the Start menu and find AutoCAD in the All Programs section.
  • Right-click the AutoCAD application icon and click on Properties. This opens a new window showcasing various settings.

Step 2: Assign a Custom Shortcut Key

  • In the Properties window, look for the Shortcut key field. Click on it to highlight.
  • Input your desired key combination for the shortcut. Ensure it does not conflict with existing shortcuts already in use.

Step 3: Confirm Changes

  • Click the OK button to save your new shortcut key setting.

Adding Shortcuts for Apps on Mobile or Desktop

In addition to creating shortcuts in AutoCAD, you can manage application shortcuts on mobile devices or desktops to enhance accessibility:

  1. Touch and hold the app icon to bring up corresponding options.
  2. If the app has available shortcuts, a menu will appear. Select one to proceed.
  3. Drag and drop the selected shortcut to your desired location on the screen or home screen. Release to place it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I create more than one alias for a single command?
Yes, multiple aliases can be assigned to a single command, providing different shortcuts that achieve the same result.

2. Are there default shortcuts in AutoCAD that I cannot change?
While most shortcuts can be customized or altered, some may be predefined by AutoCAD itself and may have limitations regarding reassigning.

3. How do I revert back to the default shortcuts?
To revert to default settings, you can simply delete the custom aliases from the PGP file and reinitialize AutoCAD, or utilize the reset option found in the customization interface.

Following these detailed steps ensures a more efficient and personalized AutoCAD experience, enhancing your productivity.

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.