How To Give Text In AutoCAD?

Understanding Text Input in AutoCAD

AutoCAD provides robust features for adding text to your designs, making it essential for conveying important information. Whether you need to annotate a drawing or label items, using text effectively can enhance your work significantly.

Steps to Insert Text in AutoCAD

1. Selecting the Text Tool: Launch AutoCAD and navigate to the Annotate tab located on the ribbon at the top. Here, you will find options to insert different types of text.

2. Choosing Text Type: You can opt for either Single Line Text (DTEXT) or Multiline Text (MTEXT). Single Line Text is useful for short annotations, while Multiline Text allows for more complex formatting.

3. Placing the Text:

   • For Single Line Text:
     • Click on the Single Line Text icon.
     • You will be prompted to specify the starting point by either clicking on the drawing area or entering coordinates.
   • For Multiline Text:
     • Click on the Multiline Text icon.
     • A text box will appear where you can drag to define the area for the text.

4. Entering Text: After placing the text, a dialog box will appear where you can type in your desired content.

   • AutCAD will prompt you to define the height of your text. Ensure you specify this according to your drawing’s scale.
5. Formatting Options: Once the text is inserted, you can modify its appearance through the Text Style Manager. Access this by clicking on the Home tab, navigating to the Annotation panel, and selecting Text Style. Here, you can change the font, size, and other characteristics.

Modifying Text Properties

1. Changing Text Type:

   • Navigate to the Text Style dialog as mentioned above.
   • To create a new style, click the New button and enter a name for your text style.
   • Select your desired font from the list to ensure uniformity across your drawing.

2. Adjusting Text Size:

   • From the Drafting tab, proceed to the Text panel and select the Style option.
   • Choose the text style you want to modify and enter a new height in the designated box. This update will only affect text linked to that style.
3. Adding a Text Frame(If Needed):
   • Right-click on the Multiline Text you have created.
   • Select Properties and find the Text Frame option. Set this to ‘Yes’ to enclose your text within a frame, which can enhance visibility.

Converting Text to Polylines

If you need to convert your text into a polyline, follow these steps:

1. Accessing Express Tools:

   • Click on the Express Tools tab in the main menu.
2. Using the Explode Command:
   • Navigate to the Modify Text dropdown menu.
   • Select the option labeled Explode.
   • Click on the text you want to convert and press Enter to finalize the conversion.

This will transform your text into a series of polylines, making them easier to manipulate as vector paths.

Different Types of Text in AutoCAD

1. Single Line Text (DTEXT):

   • Ideal for shorter phrases or labels. Each line is treated as a separate entity, allowing for easy adjustments and movements.
2. Multiline Text (MTEXT):
   • Provides advanced formatting options, such as paragraph spacing and alignment. This type is best when you need to include larger blocks of text that require more control over layout and style.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the standard font size for text in AutoCAD?
Most drawings use a standard font size between 11 and 12 points, depending on the clarity needed based on the drawing scale and complexity.

2. How can I access the Text Style Manager in AutoCAD?
You can find the Text Style Manager by navigating to the Annotation panel on the Home tab, where you’ll have the option to modify or create new text styles.

3. Can I insert fields within my text in AutoCAD?
Yes, you can insert fields into your Multiline Text by right-clicking during text editing and selecting ‘Insert Field.’ This allows dynamic text updates based on drawing properties.