How to Trim on AutoCAD 2020?

Understanding the Trim Command in AutoCAD 2025

Trimming in AutoCAD allows users to cut objects at the edges of other objects, facilitating neat and precise drawings. This feature is essential for maintaining accuracy in design projects. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to effectively utilize the Trim command in AutoCAD 2025.

Activating the Trim Tool

To begin using the Trim command in AutoCAD:

1. Locate the Modify Panel: Open your AutoCAD workspace and click on the Home tab. Look for the Modify panel.
2. Select the Trim Tool: Find the trim icon (it looks like scissors) and click on it. This will activate the Trim feature.

Pre-selecting Cutting Edges and Objects

1. Select Cutting Edges: Once the Trim tool is activated, the first step is to select the objects that will serve as cutting edges. Click on the edges or lines that you want to trim against.
2. Confirm Selection: After selecting all the necessary cutting edges, press Enter to confirm your selection.
3. Select Objects to Trim: Now, click on the portions of the objects that you wish to trim away, following the cutting edges you previously selected.
4. Finalize the Trim: Once you have selected the objects you wish to remove, press Enter again to complete the trimming process.

Potential Issues and Troubleshooting

If you find that the Trim command is not functioning as expected, consider the following steps:

1. Check the PICKADD Variable: Ensure that the PICKADD variable is set to 2. You can check this by typing PICKADD in the command line, hitting Enter, and verifying its value.
2. Pre-selection Requirement: Make sure to pre-select the cutting edges before activating the Trim command.
3. Activation of Command: Type TRIM in the command line and press Enter twice if necessary, to re-activate the command if it seems unresponsive.

Trimming Different Types of Objects

Trimming in AutoCAD is versatile and extends to various shapes, including ellipses and hatches. Here’s how to trim an ellipse:

1. Activate the Trim Tool: As before, select the Trim command from the Modify panel.
2. Select Cutting Edges: Choose the edges against which the ellipse will be trimmed.
3. Project if Necessary: Input ‘p’ for Project and then ‘v’ for View to ensure the trimming is applied correctly to the ellipse.
4. Trim the Ellipse: Click on the section of the ellipse that needs to be removed, then finalize the action.

Understanding the Difference Between Trim and Erase

While both Trim and Erase commands allow for the removal of unwanted sections in AutoCAD, they serve different purposes:

• Trim: Specifically removes portions of objects that extend past cutting edges.
• Erase: Deletes entire objects or elements selected without regard to nearby edges.

FAQ

1. Can I undo the trim action if I make a mistake?
Yes, you can use the UNDO command to revert the last action performed, including any trimming mistakes.

2. Is it possible to trim associative hatches?
Trimming associative hatches is not possible directly. They must first be converted to non-associative hatches before trimming can take place.

3. What should I do if the Trim command isn’t available?
If the Trim command is unresponsive, ensure you are not on a layout tab and that no objects are locked. Check the command line for any prompts or error messages for further guidance.