Understanding the Lasso Tool in AutoCAD
The Lasso Tool in AutoCAD allows users to make free-form selections in the drawing area, enhancing flexibility when choosing multiple objects. However, there might be instances when turning off this feature could improve workflow or reduce inadvertent selections.
Steps to Disable the Lasso Tool in AutoCAD
-
Open Options Menu: Begin by accessing the Options dialog. You can do this by typing
OPorOPTIONSinto the command prompt and pressing Enter. -
Selection Tab: Once the Options window is displayed, navigate to the
Selectiontab. This tab contains various settings related to object selection. -
Uncheck the Lasso Option: Look for the checkbox labeled “Allow press and drag for Lasso.” Modify this setting by unchecking the box to disable the Lasso feature.
- Apply Changes: After unchecking the Lasso option, click on OK or Apply to save your changes. This will disable the Lasso Tool functionality for future selections.
Alternative Methods to Deselect in AutoCAD
If the Lasso has been disabled and you still need to manage selections, you can utilize various methods to deselect objects:
- Using Shift Key: Hold down the Shift key while clicking on individual objects to deselect them.
- Drag to Deselect: Click and drag over multiple objects while holding Shift to deselect groups of items.
- Escape Key: Press the Esc key if you want to deselect all objects at once, clearing any active selection.
Adjusting Selection Preferences
AutoCAD provides various options that can help manage selections more effectively:
- Preferences Access: Right-click anywhere in the drawing area where no objects are selected and choose
Optionsfrom the context menu. - Settings for Cursor and Selection: In the
Application Preferencesdialog box that opens, navigate to theCursor and Selectiontab. From here, you can customize your selection settings according to your preferences. - Saving Preferences: After making the necessary adjustments, ensure to apply your changes and exit the Preferences dialog.
FAQ
Q1: What will happen if I disable the Lasso Tool?
Disabling the Lasso Tool will prevent free-form selections, making it necessary to rely on rectangular window selections or individual object selections using the regular cursor method.
Q2: How can I turn on selection cycling to select overlapping objects?
To enable selection cycling, type SELECTIONCYCLING at the command prompt and set it to 1. This will allow you to select overlapping objects by pressing Shift + Spacebar.
Q3: Can I re-enable the Lasso Tool later if needed?
Yes, you can easily re-enable the Lasso Tool by following the same steps to access the Options menu and checking the “Allow press and drag for Lasso” option again.
