How Do I Insert a CL Symbol in AutoCAD?

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AutoCAD is a powerful software used by professionals in various industries such as architecture, engineering, and design. It allows users to create detailed 2D and 3D drawings with precision and accuracy.

One commonly used symbol in AutoCAD is the CL symbol, which represents the centerline of an object or a line. In this tutorial, we will explore how to insert the CL symbol in AutoCAD.

Method 1: Using the Character Map

If you are working on a Windows computer, you can use the built-in Character Map tool to insert special symbols like the CL symbol in AutoCAD. Here’s how:

  1. Open the Character Map tool by pressing the Windows key and typing “Character Map” in the search bar. Click on the Character Map application from the search results.

  2. In the Character Map window, select a font that supports special symbols. For example, Arial or Times New Roman.

  3. Scroll through the available characters until you find the CL symbol.

    You can also use the search bar at the bottom of the window to search for specific symbols.

  4. Click on the CL symbol to select it, then click on “Copy” to copy it to your clipboard.

  5. In AutoCAD, navigate to where you want to insert the CL symbol. Right-click and select “Paste” from the context menu. The CL symbol should now appear in your drawing.

Method 2: Using Keyboard Shortcuts

If you frequently need to insert the CL symbol in your drawings, using keyboard shortcuts can save you time. Here’s how:

  1. In AutoCAD, navigate to where you want to insert the CL symbol.

  2. Activate the “Mtext” command by typing “MTEXT” in the command line and pressing Enter.

  3. In the Mtext editor, type the following code: %%c (including the percentage signs).

  4. Press Enter to exit the Mtext editor.

Method 3: Using AutoCAD’s Symbol Library

If you prefer using AutoCAD’s built-in symbol library, here’s how you can insert the CL symbol:

  1. In AutoCAD, navigate to where you want to insert the CL symbol.

  2. Type “SYMBOL” in the command line and press Enter to open the Symbol dialog box.

  3. In the Symbol dialog box, select a suitable font from the drop-down menu.

  4. Scroll through the list of symbols until you find the CL symbol.

    Click on it to select it.

  5. Click on “Insert” to insert the CL symbol into your drawing. You can also adjust its size and rotation if needed.

By using one of these methods, you can easily insert the CL symbol in AutoCAD and enhance your drawings with clear centerlines. Whether you choose to use the Character Map, keyboard shortcuts, or AutoCAD’s symbol library, having this knowledge will undoubtedly make your workflow more efficient and professional-looking.

Remember, mastering the various tools and features in AutoCAD will greatly enhance your ability to create accurate and detailed drawings. Happy designing!