How Do You Insert a Divide Symbol in AutoCAD?

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In AutoCAD, you may often come across the need to insert a divide symbol. Whether you are working on architectural drawings, mechanical designs, or any other type of project, the divide symbol is a useful tool for representing fractions and dividing lines.

Method 1: Using the Character Map

If you want to insert a divide symbol in AutoCAD, one of the simplest methods is by using the Character Map utility that comes pre-installed with Windows operating systems.

  1. Step 1: Open the Character Map utility by searching for it in the Start menu or by pressing Win + R and typing “charmap” in the Run dialog box.
  2. Step 2: In the Character Map window, select “Arial” or any other font that supports the divide symbol.
  3. Step 3: Scroll through the available characters until you find the divide symbol (÷).
  4. Step 4: Click on the divide symbol to select it and then click on the “Copy” button.
  5. Step 5: Switch to your AutoCAD drawing and paste (Ctrl + V) the copied divide symbol at the desired location.

Method 2: Using Alt Codes

If you prefer using keyboard shortcuts, you can also insert a divide symbol in AutoCAD using Alt codes. These codes allow you to enter special characters by pressing a combination of keys on your keyboard.

  1. Step 1: Make sure that Num Lock is enabled on your keyboard.
  2. Step 2: Place your cursor at the location where you want to insert the divide symbol.
  3. Step 3: Press and hold the Alt key on your keyboard.
  4. Step 4: While holding the Alt key, type the Alt code for the divide symbol (0247) using the numeric keypad.
  5. Step 5: Release the Alt key, and the divide symbol (÷) will appear at the cursor location in AutoCAD.

Method 3: Using AutoCAD Commands

If you frequently need to insert a divide symbol in your AutoCAD drawings, you can also create a custom command that inserts it with a single keystroke. Here’s how:

  1. Step 1: Open AutoCAD and type “CUI” in the command line to open the Customize User Interface dialog box.
  2. Step 2: In the Customize tab, expand “Keyboard Shortcuts” and then expand “Shortcut Keys”.
  3. Step 3: Scroll through the list of commands until you find “Text” and select it.
  4. Step 4: Click on “New Shortcut..” and enter a name for your custom command, such as “DivideSymbol”.
  5. Step 5: In the “Command List” section, enter “^C^C_UCSICON;_-INSERT;DIVIDEBLOCK.dwg;1;;”. This command inserts a predefined block containing a divide symbol.
  6. Note: You can create your own block with a divide symbol or download ready-made blocks online.
  7. Step 6: Assign a keyboard shortcut to your custom command by selecting it in the “Commands” list and clicking on “Press new keys”.
  8. Step 7: Press the desired key combination for your custom command, such as Ctrl + /, and click on “Assign”.
  9. Step 8: Click on “OK” to close the Customize User Interface dialog box.

With these methods at your disposal, you can easily insert a divide symbol in AutoCAD whenever you need it. Whether you choose to use the Character Map, Alt codes, or create a custom command, having this symbol readily available will help you convey fractions and division lines accurately in your drawings.