How to Find Length of Multiple Lines in AutoCAD?

Understanding Length Calculation of Multiple Lines in AutoCAD

Finding the total length of multiple lines in AutoCAD is essential for various design and drafting tasks. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to efficiently determine the length of multiple lines, taking advantage of AutoCAD 2025 features.

Method 1: Using the LIST Command

1. Activate the Command: Begin by typing LIST into the command line and hit Enter.

2. Select the Lines: After initiating the command, click on the first line you want to measure. If you have multiple lines, you can continue selecting them one by one.

3. Data Output: Once all the lines have been selected, press Enter. The properties, including the length of each line, will be displayed in the command window. This method provides a direct measurement for each selected line along with the total length.

Method 2: Using the Quick Properties Palette

1. Select the Lines: Click and drag a window around all the lines you wish to measure, or hold down the Shift key and click on each line individually.

2. Access Quick Properties: If the Quick Properties palette is not already open, you can access it by right-clicking on any of the selected lines and choosing Quick Properties from the context menu.

3. Read the Lengths: The palette will show the cumulative length of all selected lines. This instantaneous view can be beneficial for quick checks during the drafting process.

Method 3: Using the MEASURE Command

1. Type MEASURE: Enter the MEASURE command into the command line and press Enter.

2. Specify Length Option: Choose the Length option when prompted.

3. Select the Lines: Click on the lines you want to measure. AutoCAD will prompt you to pick points along the line; you can do this consecutively for all the lines.

4. Display Length: After completing the selection, AutoCAD will display each individual length as you measure.

Method 4: Using Properties Command

1. Select Your Lines: As with other methods, begin by selecting the lines for which you need length measurements.

2. Open Properties Palette: Press Ctrl + 1 to summon the Properties palette if it’s not already visible.

3. View Length Data: In the palette under the Geometry section, you will see the total length for the selected lines. This is a straightforward way to view not just lengths but other properties too.

FAQ

1. Can I measure the length of polylines using these methods?
Yes, the same methods can be used to measure the lengths of polylines. When selecting, simply include the polyline segments along with individual lines.

2. Is it possible to measure lengths in a 3D drawing?
Absolutely. The methods outlined above apply to 3D lines and polylines as well. Just ensure you are in a suitable view to select your objects accurately.

3. How do I change the units displayed for the length measurements?
To change the measurement units in AutoCAD, go to the Units command settings (type UNITS in the command line) and select the desired unit type such as feet, meters, or inches. Be sure to apply the changes to your drawing for accurate measurement output.