AutoCAD

How to View Command Line History in AutoCAD

Accessing Command Line History in AutoCAD

Understanding how to navigate and utilize your Command Line history in AutoCAD can greatly enhance your workflow. Here’s a step-by-step guide to accessing and managing this feature effectively.

Step 1: Open AutoCAD

Launch the AutoCAD application on your device. Ensure that you have a drawing file open to access commands and their associated history.

Step 2: Access the Command Line Interface

The Command Line is typically located at the bottom of the AutoCAD workspace. If it isn’t visible, you can display it by typing COMMANDLINE into the command prompt or by pressing Ctrl + 9.

Step 3: View Your Command History

To see the history of the commands you have utilized:

  1. Type the Command: Within the Command Line, you can simply start typing the command or use the up and down arrow keys on your keyboard. This will cycle through commands that you’ve recently entered.
  2. Review Command Entries: As you use the up arrow key, previously entered commands will appear one by one. This allows you to execute an earlier command without having to retype it.

Step 4: Explore the AutoCAD Drawing History Feature (AutoCAD 2025)

For a more detailed view of how your drawings have progressed over time:

  1. Access the Drawing History: Go to the Manage tab on the ribbon.
  2. Open the Drawing History Palette: Click on Drawing History. This feature provides insight into past versions, allowing you to see changes made over time.

Step 5: Clear Command History

If your command history is cluttered or if you wish to reset it:

  1. Command Line Options: Type OPTIONS in the Command Line and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to the Open and Save Tab: Here, you can adjust settings for the number of recently used files.
  3. Adjust File History Preferences: Set the options to 0 to clear the lists, and click OK to apply your changes.

FAQ

1. Can I undo a command from the command history?
Unfortunately, the Command Line history in AutoCAD does not support undoing commands directly. You would need to manually correct changes if needed.

2. Is there a limit to how many commands are stored in the history?
Yes, AutoCAD stores a fixed number of recent commands in history. This limit can vary depending on your settings.

3. How do I compare different versions of an AutoCAD drawing?
To compare versions, use the COMPARE command in the Command Line. Select the two files you want to compare, and AutoCAD will display the differences for you.

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.