How Do You Show Degrees in AutoCAD?

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In AutoCAD, showing degrees is a crucial part of accurately representing angles and measurements in your designs. Whether you are creating architectural plans, mechanical drawings, or any other type of technical illustration, it’s important to know how to display degrees properly. In this tutorial, we will explore different methods to show degrees in AutoCAD and how to incorporate them into your drawings effectively.

Using the Degree Symbol

The most common way to indicate degrees in AutoCAD is by using the degree symbol (°). To insert the degree symbol into your drawing, follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Place your cursor where you want to insert the degree symbol.
  • Step 2: Press the ALT key on your keyboard.
  • Step 3: While holding down the ALT key, type “0176” on the numeric keypad.

For example, if you want to display an angle of 45 degrees, simply type “45°” using the steps mentioned above. The degree symbol will appear in your drawing at the cursor location.

Using Text Formatting

Another way to show degrees in AutoCAD is by using text formatting options such as bold or underline. This method can be useful when you want to emphasize certain angles or measurements. Here’s how you can apply text formatting:

  • Bold Text: To make a degree value bold, enclose it within <b> tags. For example: <b>45°</b>.
  • Underline Text: To underline a degree value, enclose it within <u> tags. For example: <u>45°</u>.

By using these formatting options, you can draw attention to specific angles or measurements, making them easier to read and understand.

Using Dimension Styles

AutoCAD offers dimension styles that allow you to customize the appearance of dimensions, including the display of degrees. This method is particularly useful when you want to apply consistent formatting throughout your drawing. Here’s how you can use dimension styles to show degrees:

  • Step 1: Open the Dimension Style Manager by typing “DIMSTYLE” in the command line or accessing it through the ribbon menu.
  • Step 2: In the Dimension Style Manager dialog box, select the desired dimension style or create a new one.
  • Step 3: In the Primary Units tab, locate the “Suffix” field.
  • Step 4: Enter the degree symbol (°) in the “Suffix” field.

Once you have set up your desired dimension style with the degree symbol as a suffix, all dimensions created with that style will automatically display degrees.

Conclusion

Showing degrees in AutoCAD is essential for accurate and precise drawings. By using methods like inserting the degree symbol, applying text formatting options like bold and underline, or customizing dimension styles, you can effectively represent angles and measurements in your designs.

Remember to choose the method that best suits your needs and ensures consistency throughout your drawing.