In AutoCAD, the selection window is a powerful tool that allows you to select objects within a specified area. Activating the selection window is a simple process that can be done in a few different ways.
Method 1: Ribbon Interface
If you are using AutoCAD’s ribbon interface, follow these steps to activate the selection window:
Step 1: Start by opening AutoCAD and navigating to the Home tab on the ribbon.
Step 2: In the Modify panel, you will find a button labeled “Window”. Click on this button to activate the selection window.
Method 2: Command Line
If you prefer using AutoCAD’s command line interface, you can activate the selection window using command line inputs. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Start by opening AutoCAD and making sure that the command line is visible at the bottom of the screen.
Step 2: Type “W” (without quotes) in the command line and press Enter. This command is short for “Window” and will activate the selection window.
Method 3: Keyboard Shortcut
For those who like to work efficiently with keyboard shortcuts, AutoCAD provides a quick way to activate the selection window. Here’s how:
Step 1: Start by opening AutoCAD and ensuring that your cursor is within the drawing area.
Step 2: Press and hold down the “Shift” key on your keyboard.
Step 3: While holding down “Shift”, press and release either “W” or “E”. Pressing “W” activates a rectangular selection window, while pressing “E” activates a polygonal selection window. Release both keys after making your choice.
Once you have activated the selection window using any of these methods, you can proceed to select objects in your drawing.
Tip: To select objects completely enclosed by the selection window, drag the window from left to right. To select objects partially enclosed by the selection window, drag the window from right to left.
Using the Selection Window
Now that you have activated the selection window, you can utilize its various options and functionalities to select objects in AutoCAD. Here are a few key features:
- Selecting Objects: Click and drag within the selection window to encompass the desired objects. Once released, all objects within or partially within the selection window will be selected.
- Add to Selection: Hold down the “Shift” key while dragging additional selection windows to add more objects to your existing selection.
- Remove from Selection: Hold down the “Ctrl” key while dragging a new selection window over already selected objects to remove them from your current selection.
- Object Filters: AutoCAD allows you to filter your object selection based on specific criteria. Right-click within the drawing area while using the selection window and choose “Select Similar” or “Select Similar Properties” from the context menu.
In Conclusion
Activating the selection window in AutoCAD is an essential skill that will greatly enhance your efficiency when working with complex drawings. Whether you prefer using AutoCAD’s ribbon interface, command line inputs, or keyboard shortcuts, there are multiple ways to activate this tool. Remember to utilize additional features like adding or removing objects from your current selection and using object filters for more precise selections.
I hope this tutorial has been helpful in explaining how to activate a selection window in AutoCAD. Happy drafting!