How To Display Shortcut Keys In AutoCAD?

How to Display Shortcut Keys in AutoCAD

To effectively enhance your workflow in AutoCAD, knowing how to display and use keyboard shortcuts is essential. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to access and manage shortcut keys in AutoCAD 2025.

Step 1: Accessing Shortcut Keys

1. Open the Properties pane. You can do this by selecting a blank area in your drawing or by navigating through the application menu.
2. Locate the Key(s) box. Click inside this box to prepare for setting or viewing shortcut keys.
3. To bring up the Shortcut Keys dialog box, look for an ellipsis button (…) next to the Key(s) box and click it.

Step 2: Assigning Shortcuts

1. In the Shortcut Keys dialog box, hold down the Ctrl key while combining it with Shift, Alt, or both.
2. Choose a letter, number, function key (like F1), or even a virtual key for your shortcut.
3. After selecting your desired combination, click OK to save these shortcuts.

Step 3: Navigating with Shortcuts

AutoCAD has built-in navigation shortcuts. For instance, to move backward through your actions, use Alt + Left Arrow or Backspace. To move forward, try using Alt + Right Arrow or Shift + Backspace.

Working with Right-Click Shortcuts

You can customize right-click behavior, which enhances efficiency while drawing.

1. Navigate to the Application menu and select Options.
2. In the Options dialog, switch to the User Preferences tab.
3. Click on Right-Click Customization and select Turn on Time-Sensitive Right-Click. This option allows you to customize the duration before a right click is interpreted as a command.

Creating Custom Shortcut Menus

If you need a specific set of commands, AutoCAD allows you to create custom shortcut menus.

1. Go to the Customize tab in your options.
2. Find the Customizations In panel. Right-click on the Shortcut Menus node.
3. Select New Shortcut Menu. This will create a new menu, typically named ShortcutMenu1.

Utilizing Built-in Shortcut Keys

1. AutoCAD includes several one-key shortcuts:

   • QQSAVE: Saves the current drawing.
   • NNEW: Creates a new drawing.
   • IINSERT: Inserts a block into your current drawing.
   • OOFFSET: Creates parallel lines or concentric circles.
   • LLINE: Draws straight line segments.

2. Familiarizing yourself with these shortcuts can significantly speed up your productivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of shortcut keys in AutoCAD?
Shortcut keys streamline the drafting process by allowing users to perform commands quickly without navigating through menus.

How can I restore default shortcut keys in AutoCAD?
To restore default shortcut keys, access the Options menu, select the User Preferences tab, and look for the option to reset to default shortcuts.

Can I share my custom shortcut keys with others?
Yes, you can export your custom shortcuts and settings to share with others by using the Export option in the Customize tab.