How to Delete Scale List in AutoCAD?

Understanding Scale Lists in AutoCAD

When working in AutoCAD, managing your scale list is essential for ensuring accurate dimensions and proper annotation visibility in your drawings. Sometimes, it may be necessary to delete existing scales, particularly when switching projects or adapting to new standards.

Step-by-Step Guide to Delete Scales in AutoCAD

Step 1: Accessing Scale List Edit Command

Begin by typing the command -SCALELISTEDIT directly into the command line. This command opens the scale list editor, allowing you to manage your scales effectively.

Step 2: Resetting the Scale List

Once you enter the -SCALELISTEDIT command, follow the prompts that appear on your command line. You will be prompted to select an option. Type Reset and press Enter. This action initiates a reset of the scale list to its default settings.

Step 3: Confirming the Action

You will then be asked if you are sure you want to reset the scale list. Type Yes and hit Enter to confirm this action. After completing this step, all custom scales will be removed, and AutoCAD will return to its standard scale offerings.

Step 4: Optional Cleanup

For more extensive cleaning of annotation scales from multiple drawings, consider installing the Scale List Cleanup Utility specific to your AutoCAD version. This tool can help streamline the process across various files, ensuring uniformity without needing to repeat the reset for each drawing individually.

Managing Annotation Scales

If you need to remove specific annotation scales rather than resetting your entire scale list, the following steps are recommended:

1. Access Properties Panel: Type PROP into the command line and press Enter. This opens the Properties panel where you can manage different properties of your objects.

2. Select the Scale to Purge: In the annotative scale box, look for the scale that you want to remove. Click the box next to the current scale to highlight the options.

3. Delete Unwanted Scales: After selecting the scales intended for removal, click the Delete option. Confirm the deletion by clicking OK.

Adjusting Default Scales

If needed, you can also modify the default scale used in your current drawing:

1. Open the Options Dialog: Type OPTIONS in the command line to access the Options dialog box.

2. Navigate to User Preferences: Go to the User Preferences tab and locate the Default Scale List section.

3. Modify as Necessary: Here, you can change the default scale settings according to your project requirements.

FAQ

Q1: What should I do if the scale list does not reset?
Ensure that you are using the correct command format (-SCALELISTEDIT) and follow all prompts exactly. If issues persist, consider restarting AutoCAD or consulting the help documentation for further troubleshooting.

Q2: Can I restore deleted scales from the reset?
No, once you reset the scale list, all custom scales are permanently removed. It’s essential to keep a backup of any custom scales that you may need in the future.

Q3: Is there a way to customize scales for specific projects?
Yes, after resetting the scale list, you can add custom scales by going to the SCALELISTEDIT command again. This allows you to create a personalized scale list tailored to the specific needs of your projects.