How Do I Go Back to 2D in AutoCAD?

In AutoCAD, you can easily switch between 2D and 3D modes to suit your design needs. If you find yourself working in the 3D environment and want to go back to the familiar 2D workspace, here’s how you can do it.

Method 1: Using the Ribbon

To switch back to 2D in AutoCAD using the Ribbon, follow these steps:

  1. Locate the “Workspace” section on the Ribbon.
  2. Click on the arrow next to “Workspace,” which will open a drop-down menu.
  3. In the drop-down menu, select “Drafting & Annotation” or “AutoCAD Classic.” These workspaces are specifically designed for 2D drawing and editing.

By selecting one of these options, AutoCAD will switch to a workspace that focuses on 2D drafting tools and commands, making it easier for you to work in a two-dimensional environment.

Method 2: Using the Command Line

If you prefer using commands in AutoCAD, you can also switch back to 2D by following these steps:

  1. Type “TOOLBAR” in the command line and press Enter. This will open the Toolbars dialog box.
  2. In the Toolbars dialog box, locate and select “AutoCAD Classic” or “Drafting & Annotation” from the list of available toolbars.
  3. Click on OK to apply your selection.

This method enables you to manually add or remove toolbars related to specific workspaces. By choosing a workspace that focuses on 2D drafting, you’ll have quick access to commonly used tools for creating and editing two-dimensional drawings.

Note:

If you find yourself frequently switching between 2D and 3D environments, you can create a custom workspace that includes both sets of tools. This way, you can easily switch between the two as needed.

Now that you know how to switch back to 2D in AutoCAD, you can seamlessly transition between 2D and 3D workflows based on your project requirements. Whether it’s creating detailed floor plans or designing complex 3D models, AutoCAD offers the flexibility to accommodate your design needs.