How to Exit Paper Space in AutoCAD?

Navigating Out of Paper Space in AutoCAD

When working in AutoCAD, it’s essential to understand how to efficiently switch between paper space and model space, especially when preparing drawings for presentation or printing. Paper space allows you to set up layouts with annotations and borders, while model space is where the actual design work is done.

Switching from Model Space to Paper Space

To exit model space and enter paper space, follow these steps:

1. Locate the Layout Tabs: At the bottom of your AutoCAD window, you will find tabs for different layouts. These are typically labeled “Layout1”, “Layout2”, etc.

2. Select the Desired Layout: Click on the layout tab that corresponds to the paper space environment you wish to enter.

3. Double-Click Outside Viewports: If you are in a layout with one or more viewports, simply double-click outside those viewports to exit their model space and return to the overall paper space.

Exiting a Viewport

If you find yourself operating within a viewport but want to return to paper space, you can easily do so:

1. Double-Click in the Viewport: This action allows for model space editing. To exit this mode, look for the status bar.

2. Use the Command Shortcut: Type PS and press Enter. This command is an efficient way to switch back to paper space without needing to navigate around the interface manually.

3. Utilize Control Keys: Press Ctrl + R to cycle through multiple viewports. This way, you can jump between various layout viewports until you find the one you need.

Exiting Fullscreen Viewport

Occasionally, you may find yourself working in a fullscreen viewport. Here’s how to exit this mode:

1. Toggle Clean Screen: Press Ctrl + 0 on your keyboard. This toggles the clean screen mode, returning you from fullscreen to a standard windowed view.

2. Use the Interface Button: There’s a button located at the lower-right corner of the AutoCAD interface that also allows you to exit fullscreen.

Adjusting Viewport Settings

If you need to make changes to viewport settings or properties, follow these steps:

1. Select the Viewport: Click directly on the viewport that you want to modify.

2. Open Properties Panel: Right-click and select "Properties" from the context menu to open the properties panel for that specific viewport.

3. Edit Viewport Properties: Adjust settings such as scale, layer visibility, and locking options directly within this panel.

Controlling Viewport Borders

To manage visibility of viewport borders:

1. Access the Layout: Go to the layout that contains the viewport border you would like to adjust.

2. Use the Layer Properties Toolbar: Find and click the “Layers” button to view the properties for different layers.

3. Create a New Layer: Click on “New”, name your layer appropriately, and then use the “Freeze Layer” option to hide it from the printout.

FAQs

1. How can I quickly navigate between multiple viewports?

You can use the shortcut Ctrl + R to cycle through the existing viewports, making it easier to switch without using the mouse.

2. What should I do if I accidentally lock my viewport?

To unlock a viewport, you can click on the padlock icon in the status bar while the viewport is selected, or you can type MV and follow the prompts to adjust the locking settings.

3. How can I delete a viewport I no longer need in paper space?

Navigate to the “View” tab, find the “Viewports” panel, and select the “Named” option. From here, you can locate the viewport you wish to delete and simply press the DELETE key.