In AutoCAD, the Area command is a powerful tool that allows you to calculate the area of a closed shape or a series of connected shapes. This command comes in handy when you need to determine the size of an object or when you’re working on architectural or engineering projects.
Using the Area Command
To use the Area command, follow these steps:
- Activate the Command: To activate the Area command, you can either type ‘AREA’ in the command line and press Enter or select ‘Area’ from the ‘Modify’ menu.
- Select Objects: After activating the command, AutoCAD will prompt you to select one or more closed shapes. You can choose objects individually by clicking on them, or you can select multiple objects by using a selection window.
Press Enter once you have made your selection.
- Reviewing Results: Once you’ve selected your objects, AutoCAD will display the total area in square units in the command line. The result will also be displayed in a small text box near your cursor.
The Area command is not limited to basic closed shapes like rectangles and circles; it can also calculate areas for irregular shapes with curved boundaries. However, keep in mind that if your shape has openings or self-intersecting lines, AutoCAD may not accurately calculate the area.
Tips for Using the Area Command Efficiently
To make your experience with the Area command even better, here are some additional tips:
- Selecting Specific Objects: If you have many objects and only need to calculate the area for specific ones, use selection filters such as object types (line, polyline, circle, etc.) or properties (color, layer, etc.) to make your selection process easier.
- Using Quick Properties: You can enable Quick Properties by right-clicking and selecting ‘Quick Properties’ from the context menu.
With Quick Properties enabled, you can see the area of an object without having to use the Area command explicitly.
- Applying Units: By default, AutoCAD uses the drawing units for calculating areas. However, you can change the display units by typing ‘UNITS’ in the command line and adjusting them accordingly. This can be helpful when working with different unit systems.
Conclusion
The Area command in AutoCAD is a valuable tool for calculating and reviewing the area of closed shapes quickly. By following a few simple steps and utilizing some useful tips, you can efficiently determine the size of objects in your drawings. Remember to consider any potential limitations when working with complex shapes and always review your results for accuracy.