AutoCAD

How to Trim in AutoCAD 2012?

Understanding the TRIM Command in AutoCAD 2025

The TRIM command is an essential tool in AutoCAD, allowing users to remove parts of objects to create cleaner designs. This guide explains how to effectively use this command in AutoCAD 2025.

Step-by-Step Guide to Trimming in AutoCAD 2025

1. Initiating the TRIM Command

  • Open your drawing in AutoCAD 2025.
  • To start the TRIM command, type TRIM on the command line and press Enter. Alternatively, you can access the command through the Home tab by selecting the Modify panel and clicking the Trim button.

2. Selecting Cutting Edges

  • After invoking the command, you will be prompted to select cutting edges. This step is crucial as it determines what objects will serve as the boundaries for your trimming.
  • You can select one or multiple objects to act as cutting edges. To confirm your selection, press Enter after selecting the desired objects. If you want to trim objects without selecting cutting edges, simply press Enter without selecting anything.

3. Choosing Objects to Trim

  • Next, it’s time to select the objects you wish to trim. Click on the parts you want to remove. Keep in mind that only the portions extending beyond the cutting edges will be trimmed.
  • If you make a mistake, you can cancel the command and start over, or you can use the Undo command to revert your last action.

4. Finalizing the Trim Action

  • Once you’ve selected all objects to be trimmed, press Enter again. The selected parts of the objects will be removed, leaving a clean boundary as defined by your cutting edges.

Effective Trimming of Polylines

Trimming polylines in AutoCAD can be done with similar steps, but it often requires a specific approach:

  1. Select the polyline or shape you wish to trim.
  2. Right-click the selected object and choose AEC Modify Tools, then Trim.
  3. Specify the two points that will create the trim line.
  4. Finally, click on the side of the trim line where the area you want to remove is located.

Understanding Why TRIM Might Fail

If the TRIM command does not work as expected, a few common issues could be the cause:

  • Check if the PICKADD variable is set to 2. This setting allows for pre-selection of objects.
  • Ensure you are entering the TRIM command correctly: type TRIM, press Enter, then press Enter again before selecting.

The Role of Edgemode

Edgemode is a useful feature that allows you to extend or trim objects to the imaginary extensions of cutting edges. This function can assist in achieving precise trimming results by ensuring that objects align perfectly with boundaries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How do I remove unwanted lines in AutoCAD?

To remove unwanted lines, you can utilize the ERASE command. Simply select the lines you wish to delete and hit Delete on your keyboard.

Q2: What is the difference between TRIM and ERASE in AutoCAD?

The TRIM command removes portions of objects up to a defined edge, while the ERASE command completely removes the selected objects without consideration for boundaries or edges.

Q3: How can I reset AutoCAD to its default settings?

To reset AutoCAD to its original settings, go to the menu, click on Preferences, navigate to the Application tab, and hit the Reset Application Options button. Then confirm to reset AutoCAD.

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.