How Do You Show Commands in SketchUp?

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In SketchUp, showing commands is a useful feature that allows you to view the actions you perform as you work on your models. This can be particularly helpful when you are learning to use SketchUp or when you need to review the steps you have taken during your modeling process.

Showing Commands in SketchUp:

If you want to show commands in SketchUp, follow these steps:

  1. Step 1: Open SketchUp and start a new model or open an existing one.
  2. Step 2: Go to the “Window” menu at the top of the screen.
  3. Step 3: In the drop-down menu, select “Preferences”.
  4. Step 4: In the Preferences dialog box, click on the “General” tab.
  5. Step 5: Under the “Options” section, check the box next to “Show Instructor”.
  6. Step 6: Click on the “Close” button to close the Preferences dialog box.

This enables the Instructor panel to appear on your screen. The Instructor panel is a floating window that displays information and instructions related to commands as you use them in SketchUp. It provides step-by-step guidance for various tools and features.

The Instructor Panel:

The Instructor panel is divided into two sections: The Command section and the Status section.

  • The Command Section:
    • The Command section displays information about the active tool or command that you are using in SketchUp. It includes details such as the name of the tool, its purpose, and any additional options or settings you can utilize.
    • As you switch between tools or perform different actions, the Command section updates to provide relevant information for each operation.
  • The Status Section:
    • The Status section shows feedback on your actions and provides helpful tips or warnings. It displays messages that guide you through the modeling process and alerts you if there are any errors or potential issues.
    • For example, if you are using the Tape Measure tool to create a guideline, the Status section may show the length of the guideline as you move your cursor.

Customizing the Instructor Panel:

If you want to customize how the Instructor panel appears and behaves in SketchUp, follow these steps:

  1. Step 1: Click on the small gear icon located at the top-right corner of the Instructor panel.
  2. Step 2: In the drop-down menu, you can choose different options such as “Always Show” to keep it visible at all times or “Auto Hide” to make it disappear when not in use.
  3. Step 3: You can also adjust the size of the panel by dragging its edges with your mouse.

You can experiment with these customization options to find a setup that suits your workflow and preferences.

In Conclusion:

Showcasing commands in SketchUp can greatly enhance your understanding of tools and actions within the software. The Instructor panel is a valuable tool that provides real-time guidance and feedback as you work on your models. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily enable and customize the Instructor panel to meet your specific needs.

Remember, practice makes perfect! So, make sure to utilize the Instructor panel and explore the various tools and commands in SketchUp to improve your modeling skills.