How Do I Set AutoCAD to Classic?

AutoCAD is a powerful software widely used by professionals in various fields such as architecture, engineering, and design. Over the years, AutoCAD has undergone several updates and changes in its user interface.

If you are more comfortable with the classic version of AutoCAD and prefer its familiar layout, you can set it to the classic mode. In this tutorial, we will guide you on how to set AutoCAD to classic mode.

Step 1: Accessing the Options Menu

To begin, open AutoCAD on your computer. Once it is launched, click on the “gear” icon located at the top-right corner of the screen. This will open the Options menu.

Step 2: Navigating to the Display tab

Within the Options menu, navigate to the “Display” tab by clicking on it. This tab contains various settings related to AutoCAD’s visual interface.

Step 3: Enabling Classic Mode

Once you are in the Display tab, locate an option called “Start-up” and click on it. A drop-down menu will appear with multiple choices.

  • No Dialog Start: This option will load AutoCAD without any additional dialog boxes.
  • Open Start Tab: This option opens a start tab with recent files and other helpful information.
  • Show Start Tab: Similar to Open Start Tab but does not show recent files.
  • Show Welcome Screen: This option displays a welcome screen upon launching AutoCAD.
  • Show Layout Tabs: This option shows or hides layout tabs at startup.
  • Show Tool Palettes: This option displays or hides tool palettes.
  • Show Command Line at Startup: This option shows or hides the command line when AutoCAD starts.
  • Show Menu Bar: This option shows or hides the menu bar in AutoCAD.
  • Show Status Bar: This option shows or hides the status bar at the bottom of the AutoCAD window.

To set AutoCAD to classic mode, make sure that both the “Show Tool Palettes” and “Show Menu Bar” options are checked. This will enable the classic interface with familiar menus and tool palettes.

Step 4: Applying Changes and Exiting Options Menu

After selecting the desired options, click on the “Apply” button to save your changes. You can also click on “OK” if you wish to apply the changes and exit the Options menu simultaneously.

Congratulations! You have successfully set AutoCAD to classic mode. The next time you launch AutoCAD, you will see its user interface in the familiar classic layout, making it easier for you to navigate through various commands and tools.

Additional Tips:

  • Customization: AutoCAD allows extensive customization of its user interface. You can further personalize your workspace by rearranging tool palettes, creating custom menus, and assigning shortcut keys to frequently used commands.
  • Workspace Switching: If you want to switch between different workspaces in AutoCAD, you can do so by clicking on the workspace drop-down menu located on the Quick Access Toolbar. Here you will find various predefined workspaces such as Drafting & Annotation, 3D Basics, and Classic.

By following the steps mentioned above, you can easily set AutoCAD to classic mode and enjoy the familiar interface that you are accustomed to. Whether you prefer the classic version for its simplicity or find it more efficient for your workflow, AutoCAD offers flexibility in its user interface to cater to your preferences.