AutoCAD

How to Get Toolbar in AutoCAD 2018?

Understanding the AutoCAD Toolbar

The toolbar in AutoCAD is an essential part of the user interface, providing easy access to commonly used commands and tools. If you’re using AutoCAD 2018 and can’t find the toolbar, there are multiple ways to restore it.

Steps to Retrieve the Toolbar in AutoCAD 2018

Method 1: Using the Menu Bar

  1. Open the Application: Launch your AutoCAD 2018 software.
  2. Show Menu Bar: Go to the top-left corner of the application window. Look for the Quick Access toolbar and click the drop-down menu.
  3. Enable Menu Bar: In the drop-down options, find “Show Menu Bar” and ensure it is checked. This will make the menu bar visible and may help in displaying the toolbar.

Method 2: Utilizing CUI (Customize User Interface)

  1. Access the Command Line: At the command prompt within AutoCAD, type CUI and press Enter.
  2. Select Workspace: In the Customize User Interface dialog that appears, navigate to the “Customize” tab. Look under “All Customization Files” to select the workspace you wish to modify.
  3. Customize Workspace: Click on the “Customize Workspace” button located on the right side.
  4. Modify Toolbars: In the list on the left, expand the “Toolbars” section. Check the boxes next to any toolbars you want displayed in your workspace. Click “Apply” to confirm your changes.

Method 3: Resetting the Toolbar

  1. Start Menu: Click on the Windows button to access the Start Screen and find the AutoCAD application in your list of installed software.
  2. Reset Settings: Click on “Reset Settings to Default” in the AutoCAD section. This will revert your workspace, including toolbars, to the original settings, which can help restore missing tools.

Method 4: Right-click Context Menu

  1. Right-click on Tabs: Navigate your cursor to an empty space next to the tabs or right-click on the “Favorites” button within the interface.
  2. Enable Menu Bar: You will see a dropdown menu; find and select “Menu Bar” from this list and ensure it is checked. This will activate the menu bar and may facilitate the reappearance of the toolbar.

Enabling the Quick Access Toolbar

  1. Open Options: Click on the ‘File’ menu located at the top left and choose ‘Options’ from the dropdown.
  2. Select Quick Access Toolbar: In the Options dialog box, go to the Quick Access Toolbar tab.
  3. Reset Your Toolbar: Click the “Reset” button. A confirmation message will appear; click ‘Yes’ to proceed.
  4. Close the Dialog: After resetting, close the dialog box to see the changes.

Understanding AutoCAD Toolbars

The toolbars in AutoCAD contain buttons arranged in a row, designed to provide quick access to frequently used commands. This setup increases efficiency by minimizing the time needed to navigate through menus.

FAQs

What if my toolbars still won’t show up after following these steps?
Check if your AutoCAD software needs updates or patches. Sometimes, unresolved issues might cause interface elements to malfunction.

How can I save my custom toolbar settings?
After making changes using the CUI command, be sure to save your customized settings by clicking on “Save” within the CUI dialog, so they persist in future sessions.

Can I personalize the buttons on my toolbar?
Yes, you can customize your toolbars by adding or removing buttons. Right-click on the toolbar and select “Customize” to modify the available commands based on your preferences.

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.