How Do You Use Text Commands in AutoCAD?

AutoCAD is a powerful software used by architects, engineers, and designers to create precise drawings and models. One of the key features that make AutoCAD so versatile is its text commands.

These commands allow users to add and manipulate text within their drawings. In this article, we will explore how to use text commands in AutoCAD.

Creating Text

To create text in AutoCAD, you can use the TEXT command or the MTEXT command. The TEXT command is used for single-line text, while the MTEXT command allows for multi-line text.

To create single-line text using the TEXT command, follow these steps:

  1. Click on the Text command icon in the toolbar or type ‘TEXT’ in the command line.

  2. Specify the insertion point for your text by clicking on the desired location in your drawing.

  3. Type your desired text in the command line or in the dynamic input tooltip that appears near your cursor.

  4. Press Enter to finish creating your single-line text.

If you prefer multi-line text using the MTEXT command, follow these steps:

  1. Click on the MText command icon in the toolbar or type ‘MTEXT’ in the command line.

  2. Specify two opposite corners of a rectangle to define the width of your multi-line text box.

  3. Type your desired text within the created box.

  4. Press Enter to finish creating your multi-line text.

Formatting Text

AutoCAD provides several options for formatting and styling your text. You can change its font, size, color, and even apply bold or underline effects.

To change the font of your text, select the text object and locate the Font option in the Properties panel. Click on the drop-down menu and choose your desired font from the list.

Similarly, you can change the size of your text by adjusting the Height option in the Properties panel. Enter a new value or use the up and down arrows to increase or decrease its size.

If you want to make your text stand out, you can apply bold or underline formatting. To make your text bold, select it and click on the ‘B’ icon in the Text Formatting toolbar. Alternatively, you can use the <b> HTML tag to make a specific portion of your text bold.

To underline your text, select it and click on the ‘U’ icon in the Text Formatting toolbar. Similarly, you can use the <u> HTML tag to underline a specific portion of your text.

Editing Text

AutoCAD allows for easy editing and manipulation of text within your drawings. You can modify existing text by selecting it and using various commands such as ERASE, COPY, MOVE, ROTATE, SCALE, etc.

If you need to edit specific characters within a piece of multi-line text created using MTEXT command, double-click on it to enter an edit mode. You can then modify individual characters or words as needed.

Tips for Efficient Text Editing

  • To quickly move or copy text while maintaining its formatting properties, use grips. Select the desired piece of text and drag one of its grips to a new location.

  • If you want to convert single-line text into multi-line text or vice versa, use the CHANGE command.

    Select the desired piece of text, type ‘CHANGE’ in the command line, and follow the prompts.

  • To align text vertically or horizontally within a text box, use the ALIGN command. Select the text box, type ‘ALIGN’ in the command line, and choose your desired alignment option.

Conclusion

Text commands are an essential part of using AutoCAD. They allow you to add labels, dimensions, notes, and other textual information to your drawings. By mastering the various text commands and understanding how to format and edit text efficiently, you can enhance your productivity and create professional-looking drawings in AutoCAD.

Remember to experiment with different fonts, sizes, bolding, underlining, and other formatting options to make your text visually engaging and organized. With practice, you will become proficient in using text commands in AutoCAD and unlock its full potential for creating detailed and informative drawings.