How to Label in AutoCAD?

Understanding Labels in AutoCAD

Labels in AutoCAD are essential components that convey critical information within a drawing. They can either be standalone or attached to objects, ensuring that the data displayed remains accurate when changes occur in the drawing. This guide will walk you through the process of creating and managing labels effectively in AutoCAD 2025.

Creating Labels in AutoCAD

To create a label, follow these steps:

1. Navigate to the Annotate tab, and locate the Labels & Tables panel.
2. Click on the Add Labels dropdown menu.
3. Choose the appropriate label type based on your requirements, e.g., feature-specific labels.
4. Once the Add Labels dialog box appears, select your desired label style.
5. Click Add and specify where to place the label in your drawing.

Adding Text to Labels

To insert text into a label, adhere to these steps:

1. Go to the Home tab and select the Annotation panel.
2. Choose Single Line Text.
3. Indicate the point in your drawing where you want the text to appear.
4. Set the text height either by entering a number or clicking in the workspace.
5. If necessary, specify a rotation angle for the text.
6. Type the text you wish to display.

Labeling Distances

For labeling distances in AutoCAD, follow these guided steps:

1. Access the Annotate tab, and find the Labels & Tables panel.
2. Click the dropdown and select Add Line and Curve Labels.
3. In the dialog box, under Feature, opt for Line and Curve.
4. Choose either Single Segment or Multiple Segment for the label type.
5. Select the respective line and curve label styles you want to use.

Understanding Different Text Types

AutoCAD offers two distinct types of text: Single Line and Multiline. The choice between the two depends on how text needs to be formatted:

• Single Line Text: Best for short annotations where each line is independent and can be easily moved.
• Multiline Text: More suitable for longer text passages where formatting options, like font style and alignment, are crucial.

Renaming Objects and Blocks

To rename blocks in your drawing, proceed with the following:

1. Open the command line and type RENAME to access the rename dialog.
2. Choose the type of object you want to rename from the left panel.
3. From the right panel, select the object that requires a new name.
4. Enter the new name in the Rename To field.
5. Click OK to apply the changes.

Labeling Lines with Bearing and Distance

For labeling a line that includes its distance and bearing, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Annotate tab.
2. Click the Add Labels dropdown.
3. Select Add Multiple Segment Line/Curve Labels.
4. Pick the polyline or line you wish to label.

Entering Bearing and Distance Data

To enter bearings and distances in AutoCAD, execute the following:

1. Click on the Home tab and navigate to the Draw panel.
2. Select the COGO dropdown, then choose COGO Input.
3. In the dialog, opt for the Bearing/Distance routine.
4. Define the starting point for your object.
5. Indicate the quadrant (NE, SE, SW, NW).
6. Enter the angle followed by the distance from the starting point.
7. Click Calculate and then Create Point to finalize the input.

FAQ

How do I modify the style of an existing label in AutoCAD?

To modify a label’s style, select the label, then right-click and choose Properties. From there, you can adjust the style and appearance settings as needed.

Can I delete a label once it’s created?

Yes, labels can be deleted just like any other object. Select the label and press the Delete key, or right-click and choose Delete from the context menu.

What is the best practice for organizing my labels in a complex drawing?

Utilizing layers to categorize labels based on their function (e.g., dimensions, annotations) helps maintain clarity and organization in your drawings.