AutoCAD

How To Delete Model Space In AutoCAD?

Understanding Model Space in AutoCAD

To effectively manage your design files in AutoCAD, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of model space. Model space is the working area where you create your drawings, while paper space is where you set up your layouts for printing. Knowing how to navigate between these two spaces can enhance your workflow.

Steps to Delete a Model Space in AutoCAD

Deleting a model (objects within model space) in AutoCAD requires careful consideration. Here’s how to do it step by step:

  1. Open Your Drawing: Launch AutoCAD 2025 and open the drawing that contains the model you wish to delete.

  2. Access Model Space: Click on the "Model" tab located at the bottom left of the screen. Make sure you are in model space where the objects are situated.

  3. Select the Objects: Use the mouse to click and drag a selection box around the objects you want to delete. Alternatively, you can hold the Shift key and click on individual objects to select them.

  4. Confirm Your Selection: Once selected, ensure the objects are highlighted. If you accidentally selected anything you do not want to delete, you can adjust your selection by holding the Shift key and clicking on those objects to deselect.

  5. Delete the Selected Objects: Press the Delete key on your keyboard. A confirmation may not be prompted, so be sure that you wish to remove the items selected.

  6. Save Your Work: After deleting, it’s wise to save your progress. Go to "File" and select "Save" or use the shortcut Ctrl + S.

Exiting Model Space

If you need to transition from model space to a layout viewport:

  1. Switch Viewports: Double-click inside the desired layout viewport.

  2. Return to Paper Space: To exit model space, double-click anywhere outside the viewport.

Changing to Model Space

To switch back to model space:

  1. Select the Model Tab: Click on the "Model" tab, usually found at the bottom left of your screen.

  2. Using Layout Tab: If the tabs aren’t visible, adjust settings by accessing Options, entering the Display tab, and checking the "Display Layout and Model Tabs" option.

Restoring Tabs in AutoCAD

If you can’t locate your model or layout tabs:

  1. Right-Click in Drawing Area: Open the Options menu.

  2. Check Display Settings: In the Display tab, ensure "Display Layout and Model Tabs" is activated. Click "OK."

Managing Unwanted Elements

To remove unnecessary lines or objects:

  1. Type LINESMOOTHING: Enter this command in the command line and set it to Off or 0.

  2. Modify Graphics Settings: You can also turn off Smooth Line Display in the Graphics Performance window via the GRAPHICSCONFIG command.

Deleting Multiple Layouts

To remove multiple layouts from your drawing:

  1. Open Drawing Explorer: Navigate to Drawing Explorer in the Tools menu and select Page Setups.

  2. Choose Layouts: In the Page Setup dialog, highlight the layouts you intend to delete.

  3. Execute Deletion: Click on the Delete tool in the Drawing Explorer toolbar.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I delete a layout without affecting model space?
Yes, layouts can be deleted independently, and deleting them will not affect objects located in model space.

Q2: What happens if I delete something in model space by mistake?
If you accidentally delete an object, you can use the Undo command (Ctrl + Z) to restore it immediately.

Q3: Is there a way to lock objects in model space to prevent accidental deletion?
Yes, you can use the LOCK command to secure objects in place. Select the object and apply the lock to avoid unintentional changes.

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.