How Do I Change Trim and Extends in AutoCAD?

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Welcome to this tutorial on how to change the trim and extends functions in AutoCAD!

Understanding Trim and Extend

Before we dive into the process, let’s quickly understand what trim and extend functions do in AutoCAD.

Trim:

  • Trim helps you remove unwanted lines or objects that intersect with other lines or objects.
  • It allows you to selectively delete segments of lines or objects up to the defined cutting edge.

Extend:

  • The extend function allows you to lengthen lines or objects so they intersect with other lines or objects.
  • You can extend one or multiple line segments at once.

Using Trim Function

To use the trim function in AutoCAD, follow these steps:

  1. Select the Modify panel from the home tab, and click on the Trim button. Alternatively, you can type TRIM in the command line and press Enter.
  2. Select the cutting edges by clicking on them. These are the lines or objects that will determine where your trimming will occur. You can select multiple cutting edges by holding down the Shift key while selecting them.
  3. Pick any part of an object that needs trimming. The selected portion beyond the cutting edge will be trimmed off.
  4. To exit trim mode, simply press Enter or right-click and select Enter from the context menu.

Using Extend Function

The extend function in AutoCAD is straightforward and easy to use. Follow these steps:

  1. Select the Modify panel from the home tab, and click on the Extend button. Alternatively, you can type EXTEND in the command line and press Enter.
  2. Select the boundary edges by clicking on them. These are the lines or objects that you want to extend up to.
  3. Select the lines or objects that you want to extend. You can select multiple objects by holding down the Shift key while selecting them.
  4. Press Enter or right-click and select Enter from the context menu to exit extend mode.

Tips for Effective Trimming and Extending

To make your trimming and extending tasks more efficient, keep these tips in mind:

  • Pre-select objects: Before using trim or extend, try pre-selecting objects you want to work with. This way, AutoCAD will automatically choose them for trimming or extending.
  • Cutting edge selection: When selecting cutting edges for trim, ensure they intersect with objects you wish to trim. For extending, choose boundary edges that intersect with lines or objects you want to lengthen.
  • Shift key for selection: To select multiple edges or objects for trimming or extending, hold down the Shift key while making your selections.

Congratulations! You now have a good understanding of how to change trim and extends functions in AutoCAD. Remember, practice makes perfect!

I hope this tutorial was helpful. Happy designing!