How to Use Mtext in AutoCAD 2013?

Understanding MText in AutoCAD

MText, or multiline text, is a powerful feature within AutoCAD that allows users to create text objects with advanced formatting options. This tool enables engineers, architects, and designers to consolidate several paragraphs into a single, manageable entity, enhancing the clarity and visual appeal of their drawings.

Converting Text to MText

To transition from single-line text to multiline text, follow these steps:

1. Open the Express Tools Menu: Navigate to the Express Tools option in your AutoCAD interface.
2. Select Conversion Tool: Find and click on the “Text” submenu, then choose “Convert Text to Mtext.”
3. Choose Text Objects: When prompted to select objects, highlight the text you want to change to MText. If no selection is made, pressing Enter will bring up the “Text to MText Options” dialog box, allowing for further customization.

Utilizing the MText Command

MText offers a robust platform for text formatting:

1. Access the Tool: Click on the Annotate tab, then locate the Text panel and select MText.
2. Draw the Text Box: Click and drag your cursor to define the area for your MText. Release the mouse to open the Text Editor.
3. Format Your Text: Within the Text Editor, settings for font, size, alignment, and other formatting options can be adjusted.
4. Utilize Columns and Boundaries: Use the editor’s tools to set up columns or other structural elements to organize the text, enhancing readability.

Accessing MText in AutoCAD

Finding MText is straightforward:

1. Navigate to the Annotate Tab: Click on the Annotate tab located on the ribbon.
2. Utilize the Find Function: In the Text panel, use the Find option to search for existing MText elements in your drawing.
3. Enter Search Criteria: Input the text you want to locate and press Enter. You can also specify a replacement text if desired.

Fixing MText Issues

If you encounter problems with MText formatting:

1. Editing Directly: Double-click on the MText you wish to change and modify formatting in the Text Editor.
2. Removing Formatting: For persistent formatting issues, double-click the MText and manually reset the formatting options.
3. Exploding MText: If necessary, use the EXPLODE command to break MText down into individual text components. However, note that this will erase any formatting.
4. Font Verification: Always ensure that all fonts used are installed and accessible within AutoCAD to avoid visibility issues.

Displaying MText

To ensure that your MText is displayed correctly:

1. Edit the MText Object: Double-click on the MText to open the Text Editor.
2. Adjust Editor Settings: In the upper right corner of the ribbon, access the More menu and select Editor Settings.
3. Activate Toolbar Options: Enable the Show Toolbar feature to access additional editing tools.

MText Command Details

To begin using the Multileader tool:

1. Access the Dimensions Toolbar: Click the Multileader tool on the Dimensions toolbar, or navigate through the menu.
2. Command Line Initiation: You can also enter “multileader” into the command line and press Enter to activate the tool.

Differences Between Text and MText

Understanding the distinction between single-line text (Text) and MText is vital:

• Text: Simple and limited to single lines with few formatting options.
• MText: Capable of handling multiple lines, various fonts, and complex formatting, providing a more versatile solution for documenting designs.

FAQs

1. How can I change the font style of MText in AutoCAD?
To change the font style, enter the STYLE command, select the text style you wish to modify, then choose a new font. All instances of text using that style will be updated.

2. What happens if I explode an MText object?
Exploding an MText will separate it into basic text strings, losing any formatting and properties associated with the MText object.

3. Why isn’t my text appearing in AutoCAD?
Ensure that AutoCAD is set to display all necessary fonts. If prompts regarding missing fonts appear, check your Hidden Messages Settings to ensure they are enabled. Additionally, resetting AutoCAD to its default settings may resolve visibility issues.