AutoCAD

How to Display Command Bar in AutoCAD?

by Wei Zhang
3 min read

Steps to Display the Command Bar in AutoCAD

To effectively work within AutoCAD, displaying the command bar is essential for accessing tools and features swiftly. Here’s a detailed guide on how to ensure the command bar is visible in AutoCAD.

Adjusting the Menu Bar Settings

  1. Open AutoCAD: Launch the AutoCAD application on your computer.

  2. Access the Command Line: Click anywhere on the black command line area within the interface to ensure it is active.

  3. Enter the Command: Type MENUBAR into the command line and press Enter. This command controls the visibility of the main menu bar. By default, AutoCAD may set this value to 0 (hidden).

  4. Set the Value: When prompted, input 1 and hit Enter again. This action will activate the menu bar, allowing for easy access to various functions.

Enabling Toolbars

  1. Navigate to the Tools Menu: Once the menu bar is visible, click on the "Tools" option located in the top menu.

  2. Select Toolbars: In the dropdown menu, find the "Toolbars" option and hover over it. A sidebar will appear listing available toolbars within the software.

  3. Turn On Desired Toolbars: Click on the checkbox next to the toolbars you wish to turn on (e.g., Drawing, Modify, etc.). This will ensure that these tools are readily available for your design work.

Checking Command Line Visibility

If you’re struggling to see the command line itself, it’s possible it may have been minimized or turned off.

  1. Use Keyboard Shortcuts: To quickly toggle the command line visibility, press CTRL + 9 on your keyboard. For Mac users, use CMD + 3. This command will toggle the command line on and off.

  2. Verify Position: By default, the command line should appear in the bottom left corner of the AutoCAD window. If it’s not there, using the shortcut keys should be an effective solution.

Resizing the Command Bar

If the command bar is displayed but you need it to be larger or smaller, you can easily adjust its size:

  1. Hover Technique: Move your cursor to the top edge of the command line area until you see a double-headed arrow.

  2. Drag to Resize: Click and hold the mouse button, then drag up to increase its size or drag down to decrease it. Release the mouse button when you reach the desired size.

FAQs

How can I restore the ribbon in AutoCAD 2025?

To restore the ribbon, type RIBBON into the command line and press Enter. If the ribbon appears but is not fully expanded, click on the small arrow icon at the right of the ribbon tabs to maximize it.

What should I do if my command line appears but is unresponsive?

If the command line is visible but unresponsive, you can reset it by toggling it off and back on using the keyboard shortcut CTRL + 9 (or CMD + 3 for Mac).

Can I customize the toolbars in AutoCAD?

Yes, AutoCAD allows customization of toolbars. Once you have activated them through the Tools menu, you can drag and drop commands to rearrange or create your own custom toolbars to suit your workflow.

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.

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