AutoCAD

How To Get Back Command Line In AutoCAD?

Steps to Restore the Command Line in AutoCAD

The command line is an essential interface in AutoCAD that allows users to execute commands quickly and efficiently. If you find that your command line has disappeared, follow these detailed steps to bring it back.

Activating the Command Line

  1. Utilize a Keyboard Shortcut

    • On your keyboard, press CTRL + 9 for Windows or CMD + 3 for Mac users. This command toggles the visibility of the command line. If it is hidden, this shortcut will make it appear again.
  2. Accessing the Menu Bar via the Quick Access Toolbar

    • Navigate to the top-left corner of your AutoCAD interface. Look for the Quick Access Toolbar.
    • Click on the drop-down menu located at the right end of the toolbar. From here, you can select Show Menu Bar. This action can sometimes refresh the interface and reveal the command line if it was inadvertently hidden.
  3. Using the Command Prompt
    • Click on the command line area or type a command into the space that appears at the bottom of the screen. If the command line is not visible, nothing may appear in this area.
    • Type ‘MENUBAR’ into the command prompt and press Enter. When prompted, input 1 to activate the menu bar, which might also assist in restoring the command line.

Troubleshooting Further

  1. Checking User Preferences

    • Ensure no settings have been altered that might affect visibility. Sometimes, specific workspace settings may hide elements of the interface.
    • Change the workspace setting by going to the Workspace Switching control on the status bar and choosing a different workspace, then returning to your preferred setting.
  2. Resetting AutoCAD Settings

    • If the command line does not appear after following the previous steps, consider resetting AutoCAD to its default settings:
      • Close AutoCAD.
      • Hold down the Ctrl key while launching AutoCAD. You will be prompted to reset settings. Confirm this action. This process will restore default settings, including the command line.
  3. Updating AutoCAD
    • Ensure you are using the latest version of AutoCAD. Updates often resolve bugs and interface issues that may affect elements like the command line.
    • Go to Help > Check for Updates to see if there’s a newer version available. Follow the on-screen instructions to update if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I customize the command line after restoring it?
Yes, once the command line is visible, you can customize its features. Right-click on the command line to access options for adjusting its size, position, and display settings to fit your preferences.

Q2: What should I do if the shortcut keys don’t work?
If the keyboard shortcuts fail to restore the command line, check if your keyboard settings have been altered, or try restarting AutoCAD or your computer. Sometimes, a simple restart can fix minor glitches.

Q3: Is there an alternative way to access commands without using the command line?
Yes, commands can be accessed through the Ribbon interface located at the top of the workspace. Even if the command line is not visible, you can use tabs such as Home, Insert, or Annotate to find and execute various commands.

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.