Understanding the Quick Access Toolbar in AutoCAD LT
The Quick Access Toolbar (QAT) is an essential feature within AutoCAD LT that allows users to quickly access frequently used tools and commands. Customizing the QAT can significantly improve efficiency by tailoring it to your workflow. Here’s a detailed guide on how to effectively customize the Quick Access Toolbar in AutoCAD 2025.
Accessing QAT Customization Options
To begin customizing the Quick Access Toolbar, locate the small dropdown arrow on the right side of the QAT. Clicking on this arrow reveals a menu listing some options you can readily enable or disable. Options include common commands and settings. You can also move the QAT below the Ribbon, depending on your preference for workspace organization.
Adding Commands to the Quick Access Toolbar
When you want to add specific commands that are not displayed in the default list, there are two effective methods to do so:
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Using the ‘More Commands’ Option:
- Click the dropdown arrow on the QAT and select "More Commands."
- A simplified version of the CUI (Customize User Interface) editor will appear, showing a list of available commands.
- Utilize the search bar for quick navigation or scroll through the commands.
- Once you’ve located the desired command, drag it into your QAT where you wish it to appear.
- Directly from the Ribbon:
- Navigate to the Ribbon where the command is located.
- Right-click on the specific command you wish to add.
- Select “Add to Quick Access Toolbar.” The command will automatically append to the end of your QAT.
Removing Commands from the Quick Access Toolbar
To maintain focus and enhance usability, it’s essential to keep your QAT streamlined. To remove snippets from your QAT:
- Right-click on the command you wish to remove.
- Select “Remove from Quick Access Toolbar.” This will delete it from the QAT, allowing for better organization.
Saving Customizations within Workspaces
Customizing the QAT is crucial, but knowing how it integrates with workspaces in AutoCAD 2025 is equally important. When you make adjustments to the QAT, those changes do not automatically save as part of the workspace. Instead, any modifications are stored exclusively in the “Quick Access Toolbar 1” object.
To ensure the customized QAT appears in specific workspaces, follow these steps:
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Create a New QAT for Your Workspace:
- Access the CUI by right-clicking on the "Quick Access Toolbars" section.
- Select "New Quick Access Toolbar,” assigning it a name that suits its function.
- Note that this new QAT will contain a limited selection of commands initially, usually six.
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Duplicating the Existing QAT:
- If you prefer to have a QAT with more options, right-click on “Quick Access Toolbar 1.”
- Choose "Duplicate" to create an identical copy with all existing commands.
- You can then modify this duplicated toolbar by adding or removing commands as needed.
- Assigning the Customized QAT to a Workspace:
- After creating or modifying your QAT, drag it into the Quick Access Toolbar section of your target workspace.
- Apply the settings you’ve adjusted and exit the CUI editor. Your custom QAT should now be accessible whenever you switch between workspaces.
Practical Tips for Effective Customization
- Always keep your most-used commands within immediate reach on your QAT.
- Occasionally review and update your QAT to adapt to changing project needs.
- Familiarize yourself with the available commands to maximize the QAT’s potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I reset the Quick Access Toolbar to its default settings?
Yes, you can revert the QAT to its original configuration. In the QAT dropdown menu, there’s typically an option to reset the toolbar settings.
2. Is it possible to customize the QAT for different projects?
Absolutely. You can create distinct QATs for various workspaces tailored to the specific commands you use for each project type.
3. Do changes to the QAT impact all workspaces automatically?
No, changes made to the QAT are associated with the specific QAT object and not the workspaces themselves. You will need to assign any custom QAT to individual workspaces manually.