How to Create Shortcut Keys in AutoCAD 2017?

Steps to Create Shortcut Keys in AutoCAD 2025

Understanding Shortcut Keys in AutoCAD

Shortcut keys in AutoCAD allow users to execute commands quickly, making the design process more efficient. Customizing these keys helps streamline your workflow, enabling you to access frequently used functions without navigating through menus.

Accessing AutoCAD Customization Options

1. Open AutoCAD: Start by launching the AutoCAD application on your computer.
2. Customize User Interface: Go to the ‘Manage’ tab on the ribbon interface. Look for the ‘Customizations’ panel to find options related to keyboard shortcuts.
3. Open the CUI Editor: Click on “User Interface” to launch the Customize User Interface (CUI) dialog box, where you can modify the command settings.

Creating a New Shortcut Key

1. Locate the Command List: In the CUI dialog box, navigate to the ‘Command List’ pane. This section contains all available commands that you can assign to shortcut keys.
2. Find Your Desired Command: Scroll through the command list to locate the specific command you want to create a shortcut for. If you are unsure, use the search bar to find it quickly.
3. Create the Shortcut Key:
   • Drag the Command: Select the desired command and drag it to the ‘Shortcut Keys’ node within the CUI interface.
   • Assign the Shortcut: Right-click on the newly added shortcut key and select “Properties.” This opens a dialog box where you can define a key combination for the shortcut.

Setting the Key Combination

1. Choose Your Keys: Click on the ‘Shortcut keys’ input box and press the combination of keys you wish to assign. For example, you might want to set "CTRL + L" for the line command.
2. Ensure Uniqueness: Make sure the keys you choose are not already in use to avoid conflicts.
3. Confirm the Assignment: After pressing your preferred key combination, click “OK” to apply the changes and save your new shortcut key.

Testing Your New Shortcut Key

1. Close the CUI Editor: Exit the CUI dialog box once you have finished assigning shortcuts.
2. Try Out the Shortcut: Use your newly created shortcut key in a drawing. Open a new or existing drawing and simply press your assigned keys to see if the command executes as intended.

Modifying Existing Shortcut Keys

1. Access Shortcut Keys: If you need to change an existing shortcut, return to the CUI dialog.
2. Select the Shortcut Key: Under the ‘Shortcut Keys’ node, find the key you want to modify.
3. Edit the Key Combination: Right-click on the shortcut key and choose “Properties.” Here, you can redefine the key combination or even delete the shortcut if it’s no longer needed.

Saving Your Changes

1. Save Customizations: Once you have created or modified shortcut keys, ensure you save the changes within the CUI environment. This will keep your customizations for future sessions.
2. Backing Up: Consider exporting your custom settings for backup or transferring to another machine if needed.

FAQ

What if my shortcut key does not work?

Double-check that the key combination is not already assigned to another command and verify that you have saved your changes in the CUI editor.

Can I reset shortcut keys to their default settings?

Yes, in the CUI editor, you can reset all customizations by selecting the "Reset" option, which will restore all shortcuts to their original defaults.

Are there any limitations on key combinations in AutoCAD?

Yes, only certain key combinations may be available for customization, and some may be reserved for system functions. It’s essential to choose combinations that won’t interfere with existing commands.