AutoCAD User Interface
The file extension for a standard AutoCAD drawing.
.dwg
This basic drawing command creates straight segments that are separate from each other (not connected).
LINE/LINE Command
This command rounds the corners of an object.
FILLET Command
This precision tool displays a green dashed line to help you draw at specific angles (like 30, 45, or 60 degrees).
Polar Tracking
This setting makes text automatically resize to look correct in any viewport.
Annotative
The bar at the bottom of the screen that displays command history and prompts.
Command Line
This command allows you to fill an enclosed area (like a wall) with a pattern, solid color, or gradient.
HATCH/HATCH Command
This command creates a parallel copy at a set distance (like walls).
OFFSET Command
The "Square" symbol represents this Object Snap.
Endpoint
The command for a note with an arrow pointing to an object.
MULTILEADER/MLEADER Command
The Function Key (F-Key) used to toggle Ortho Mode (Straight lines).
F8
The default method for drawing an Arc requires you to click this many specific points on the screen.
3 Points
This command cuts a line exactly where it crosses another edge.
TRIM Command
The "Triangle" symbol represents this Object Snap.
Midpoint
The standard Paper Text Height for professional drawings.
0.125 or 1/8 inch (1/8")
The shortcut to "Zoom Extents" to see the entire drawing at once.
Double-Click Mouse Wheel
If you make a mistake while drawing a Line, you can type this letter to remove just the last segment without canceling the tool.
U for Undo/Ctrl+Z
This command creates a mirrored reflection across a line.
MIRROR Command
This Function Key acts as the "Master Switch" to turn all Object Snaps On or Off.
F3
This "window" in Layout space lets you see the Model geometry.
Viewport
This interface area organizes tools into Tabs and Panels.
The Ribbon
Unlike the standard Line command, this tool creates a continuous chain of segments that acts as one single object.
POLYLINE/PLINE
This command creates a repeating pattern (Think: Rectangular, Polar).
ARRAY Command
The "X" symbol represents this Object Snap.
Intersection
This chart, usually found in the bottom corner of a layout, contains the Project Name, Scale, Date, and Drafter's Name.
Title Block