How to Give Arrow in AutoCAD?

How to Create Arrows in AutoCAD

Adding arrows in AutoCAD can enhance your technical drawings by providing clear direction and emphasis. There are several methods to create arrows in AutoCAD, depending on whether you want to use them in dimensions, leader lines, or custom designs. Below is a detailed guide on how to achieve this in AutoCAD 2025.

Drawing an Arrow Using Dimension Style

1. Open the Dimension Style Manager: Go to the Modify tab on the ribbon.

2. Access Symbols and Arrows: In the Dimension Style Manager, click on the Symbols and Arrows tab.

3. Choose Arrowheads: Under the Arrowheads section, you will find a dropdown menu labeled First arrowhead. Select User Arrow from this list.

4. Select Custom Arrow Block: A dialog box will appear. Enter the name of your desired block that you wish to use as the arrowhead. Ensure that the block is already defined in your drawing.

5. Apply Changes: After selecting your arrowhead, make sure to save your changes by clicking OK, and this will apply the custom arrowhead to your dimension lines.

Adding Arrows to Leader Lines

1. Access the Leader Line Tool: Navigate to CAD > Text > Leader Line from the main menu.

2. Specify Arrow Location: Click on your drawing to define where you want the arrow to start. Drag your mouse to create the first segment of the leader line.

3. Finalize the Leader Line: Release the mouse button, then position your cursor to the point where you want the text object to appear.

4. Input Text: Once the leader line is in place, you can enter the relevant text that you want associated with the arrow.

Inserting an Arrow at the End of a Line

1. Use the Text Command: Start by selecting the Text menu and then choose the option for Leader Line.

2. Draw the Leader Line: Click on your desired starting point and drag to where you want the arrowhead to be located.

3. Release and Position: Upon releasing the mouse button, move the cursor to place the text content as needed.

Creating Polylines with Arrow Shapes

1. Initiate the Polyline Command: Type PL or find it in the draw tools.

2. Select Start Point: Click at the desired starting point for your arrow.

3. Enable Ortho Mode: For straight movement, press the F8 key to turn on Ortho, ensuring your arrow remains straight.

4. Adjust Length: Drag the mouse to change the length and shape of the arrow to your specifications, then press Enter once satisfied.

Designing a North Arrow

1. Switch to Paper Space: To add a North arrow, ensure you are in Paper Space rather than Model Space.

2. Navigate to Layout Tools: Click on the Layout Tools tab and look for the North Arrow option.

3. Select Arrow Style: From the available list, choose a north arrow style that fits your diagram.

4. Position the Arrow: Click on the desired location in the viewport to place the north arrow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the MLEADER command in AutoCAD?
The MLEADER command creates multi-leader objects consisting of an arrowhead, a leader line or curve, and text. It allows for flexibility in how you define the content, whether by starting with the arrowhead or the text.

How can I modify the style of arrows in AutoCAD?
You can change the style of arrows by accessing the Dimension Style Manager, selecting the Symbols and Arrows tab, and choosing different arrowhead types or customizable options to suit your needs.

Can I create a line with arrows on both ends in AutoCAD?
Yes, you can create lines with arrows at both ends by using the polyline feature and adjusting the arrowhead settings accordingly, or by utilizing the properties of different line types that allow for arrow customization.