The Select tool in AutoCAD is a powerful feature that allows you to choose and manipulate objects within your drawings. Whether you need to move, copy, delete, or modify objects, the Select tool is an essential part of your workflow. In this tutorial, we will explore how to use the Select tool effectively.
Selecting Objects
To select objects in AutoCAD, you can simply click on them with the left mouse button. A selected object will be highlighted with a dashed boundary. You can also use window or crossing selection methods to select multiple objects at once.
Window Selection
A window selection allows you to select objects that are completely enclosed within a rectangular area. To perform a window selection, follow these steps:
- Click and hold the left mouse button at one corner of the rectangular area.
- Drag the cursor diagonally to the opposite corner of the area.
- Release the left mouse button.
All objects that are completely enclosed within the window will be selected. Objects partially inside or outside the window will not be selected.
Crossing Selection
A crossing selection allows you to select objects that are either completely or partially enclosed within a rectangular area. To perform a crossing selection, follow these steps:
- Hold down the Shift key on your keyboard.
- Click and hold the left mouse button at one corner of the rectangular area.
All objects that are either completely or partially enclosed within the crossing area will be selected. Objects outside the crossing area will not be selected.
Modifying Selected Objects
Once you have selected objects, you can perform various modifications on them. Some common actions include:
- Moving Objects: Select the objects, then click and drag them to a new location.
- Copying Objects: Select the objects, then press and hold the Ctrl key while dragging them to a new location.
- Deleting Objects: Select the objects, then press the Delete key on your keyboard.
- Modifying Properties: After selecting objects, you can use various AutoCAD commands to modify their properties like color, line type, etc.
The Select tool in AutoCAD is powerful and versatile, allowing you to efficiently work with your drawings. By mastering its usage and combining it with other AutoCAD tools, you can enhance your productivity and create precise designs.
In conclusion, the Select tool is an essential part of AutoCAD’s functionality. Understanding how to select and manipulate objects using this tool will greatly improve your efficiency in working with drawings. Practice using different selection methods and experiment with modifying selected objects to become proficient in using this indispensable feature of AutoCAD.