How to Deselect an Object in AutoCAD?

Deselecting Objects in AutoCAD

Being able to deselect objects is essential for efficient use of AutoCAD. This article offers clear steps and various methods for deselecting objects in AutoCAD 2025, aiding your design workflow.

Basic Deselecting Technique

1. Using the Shift Key:

   • Begin by selecting one or more objects in your drawing.
   • To remove an object from your current selection, press and hold the Shift key.
   • While holding down the Shift key, click on the object you want to deselect. This action will remove that specific entity from your selection set.

2. Using Window or Crossing Window Selection:

   • You can also employ a window selection or crossing selection while holding the Shift key.
   • Click and drag your cursor to create a selection box around the objects you wish to deselect. Any entities encompassed within this box will be removed from your selection.
3. Clearing All Selections:
   • If you want to remove all selected objects at once, simply press the Esc key. This will deselect all entities in your current selection set.

Deselecting Through Double-Clicking

1. Accessing Selection Tools:

   • Use the Selection tool or Utility tool to interact with your objects.
   • Identify the object you want to un-select.
2. Double-Click Technique:
   • Hold down the Shift key and double-click on the object.
   • AutoCAD interprets a double-click as a command to deselect the highlighted object.

Advanced Selection Techniques

1. Utilizing Lasso Selection:

   • When using lasso selection, you can easily switch between various selection modes.
   • Press the Spacebar while making your selection to cycle through Window, Crossing, and Fence modes, allowing for versatile control over what to select or deselect.
2. Adjusting Selection Settings:
   • Navigate to the Options panel and click on the Selection tab.
   • Here, you can adjust settings related to selecting multiple objects, allowing for a more customized approach to your workflow.

Handling Common Issues

• If you encounter trouble selecting or deselecting objects, ensure that:
  • The layer of the object isn’t locked.
  • You are not in a viewport that isn’t active.
  • You have not engaged in editing an external reference (xref).

FAQs

1. Can I deselect multiple objects at once?
Yes, by holding the Shift key and dragging your mouse to create a selection box over multiple objects, you can deselect all entities included in the defined area.

2. What happens if I accidentally deselect the wrong object?
Simply reselect the object by clicking on it again without holding the Shift key.

3. Are there keyboard shortcuts to simplify deselecting in AutoCAD?
Yes, pressing the Esc key will quickly clear all selections, while holding Shift allows for careful deselection of individual objects.