Understanding the Select Similar Feature in AutoCAD
The Select Similar feature in AutoCAD streamlines the process of selecting multiple objects that share similar properties, making it a valuable tool for efficiency in design tasks. Knowing how to utilize this feature effectively enhances your drawing and editing workflows.
Steps to Enable Select Similar in AutoCAD
1. **Accessing the Command**: Begin by typing `SELECTSIMILAR` into the command line and pressing Enter.
2. **Adjusting Settings**: Type `SE` for settings and press Enter. This opens the Select Similar Settings dialog box, where you can define which properties must match for the objects to be selected.
3. **Selecting Properties**: Choose the properties you want AutoCAD to evaluate, such as color, layer, or line type. Click OK to save your settings.
Selecting Similar Hatch Patterns in AutoCAD
1. **Choose an Initial Hatch**: Start by selecting a hatch that represents the characteristics of the patterns you want to pick.
2. **Right-click**: With the selected hatch highlighted, right-click to reveal a context menu.
3. **Select Similar**: From the menu, click on the “Select Similar” option. This action will highlight all hatches in the drawing that match the properties of the selected hatch.
Selection Methods for Hatching
When dealing with hatches, there are a few methods to refine your selection:
1. **Window Selection**: Drag a selection box around the hatches you want to include. This method efficiently highlights everything in the defined area.
2. **Crossing Selection**: Click and drag from right to left to select any objects that the crossing window touches, including those that are partially enclosed.
3. **Fence Selection**: Use this method to outline a specific shape or area. Type `FENCE` after initiating the selection command and click around the desired hatches.
Using Quick Select for Hatches
1. **Open Quick Select**: Navigate to the Home tab, locate the Utilities panel, and select Quick Select. Alternatively, type `QSELECT` into the command line.
2. **Define Your Selection**: In the Quick Select dialog, specify the type of object you wish to select (e.g., Hatch).
3. **Set Conditions**: Choose specific criteria that the hatches must meet, such as color, layer, or pattern style.
4. **Executing**: Click OK to perform the selection and highlight all matching hatches within your drawing.
Removing Objects from Your Selection
To exclude specific hatches or objects from your current selection:
1. **Hold Shift**: Press and hold down the Shift key.
2. **Click the Object**: Click on the hatch or object you want to remove from the selection set. This allows for easy adjustment to your selection without starting over.
Frequently Asked Questions
**1. Can I modify the properties that are used for the Select Similar command?**
Yes, you can customize the properties by accessing the Select Similar Settings through the command line and adjusting the settings.
**2. Does Select Similar work with all object types in AutoCAD?**
Select Similar is mainly effective for objects that share similar properties, but it does have limitations depending on the specific features of the object.
**3. What should I do if Select Similar doesn’t seem to work?**
Ensure that you have selected the right object and check your settings within the Select Similar dialog. If necessary, restart AutoCAD to refresh the command.
