AutoCAD

How to Give Dimensions in AutoCAD 2010?

Understanding Dimensioning in AutoCAD 2025

Step-by-Step Guide to Dimensioning

To effectively add dimensions in AutoCAD 2025, follow this structured approach:

  1. Accessing the Dimension Tool

    • Navigate to the Annotate tab located in the ribbon interface.
    • Find the Dimensions panel and select the Linear dimensioning tool.
  2. Setting Up Dimensions

    • Click on the drawing area to specify the first extension line origin.
    • Next, click again to select the second extension line origin.
  3. Rotating the Dimension Line

    • When prompted, type r for Rotated to adjust the dimension line’s orientation.
    • Enter a specific angle in degrees to set the angle of the dimension line as desired.
  4. Positioning the Dimension Line
    • Click in the drawing area to place the dimension line at your preferred location.

Modifying Dimension Styles

Changing dimension styles in AutoCAD 2025 allows for better visual representation. Follow these steps:

  1. Open Dimension Styles

    • Go to the Home tab and select the Annotation panel.
    • Click on the Dimension Style option to open the Dimension Style Manager.
  2. Select the Desired Style

    • Identify the dimension style you wish to modify and click Modify.
  3. Adjust Fit Parameters

    • In the Modify Dimension Style dialog box, navigate to the Fit tab.
    • Under Scale for Dimension Features, input your desired overall scale for dimensions.
  4. Finalizing Changes
    • Click OK to save your changes and then click Close to exit the Dimension Style Manager.

Creating Isometric Dimensions

For drawings that require isometric dimensions, use the following steps:

  1. Access Isometric Settings

    • Utilize the ISODRAFT option from the status bar.
    • Click on the ISODRAFT icon, then press the F5 key to toggle between isometric planes.
  2. Drawing Isometric Dimensions
    • Start by using the Linear dimension tool and following similar steps as above for selecting extension line origins.
    • Ensure that you position dimensions according to isometric views, adjusting angles accordingly.

Adding Dimensions in AutoCAD LT

For AutoCAD LT users, the dimensioning process is similar:

  1. Open Dimensions Panel

    • Click on the Annotate tab and select the Linear dimension tool from the Dimensions panel.
  2. Specifying Extension Lines
    • Follow the same steps for specifying the first and second extension line origins, and proceed to rotate and place the dimension line.

Modifying Text Size in Dimensions

To adjust text size in dimensions for clarity, follow these guidelines:

  1. Open Text Style Settings

    • Click on the Drafting tab, navigate to the Text panel, and select the Style option.
  2. Change Text Height

    • In the Text Style dialog, choose the relevant text style and specify the new text height in the designated box.
  3. Applying Changes
    • Click Apply to update all existing text using this style, and then click Close.

Common Questions

Q1: How can I troubleshoot small dimension text in AutoCAD?
A1: Check the dimension text height within the dimension manager under the text tab. If necessary, adjust the height to ensure it is appropriate for your drawing scale.

Q2: What do I do if dimensions appear overlapping in my drawing?
A2: You can modify the dimension style settings, particularly under the Fit tab, to manage the spacing and appearance of dimensions.

Q3: Is it possible to change the units of measurement for dimensions?
A3: Yes, to change measurement units, access the Drawing Units dialog via the command UNITS and select your preferred unit type before creating dimensions.

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.