How Do You Insert a Squared Symbol in AutoCAD?
AutoCAD is a powerful software used for creating technical drawings and designs. It offers a wide range of tools and features to enhance your workflow.
However, when it comes to inserting special symbols like the squared symbol (²), you might find yourself searching for the right method. In this tutorial, we will explore different ways to insert a squared symbol in AutoCAD.
Method 1: Using the Character Map
If you don’t have a dedicated key for the squared symbol on your keyboard, you can use the Character Map utility in Windows. Follow these steps:
- Step 1: Open the Character Map by pressing the Windows key and searching for “Character Map”.
- Step 2: In the Character Map window, select “Arial” or any other font that supports the squared symbol.
- Step 3: Scroll through the character list or use the search bar to find the squared symbol (²).
- Step 4: Click on the squared symbol to select it.
- Step 5: Click on the “Copy” button at the bottom of the window.
- Step 6: Switch to AutoCAD and place your cursor where you want to insert the squared symbol.
- Step 7: Press Ctrl+V or right-click and select “Paste” to insert the squared symbol.
Method 2: Using Unicode
If you prefer using Unicode values, here’s how you can insert the squared symbol:
- Step 1: Switch to AutoCAD and place your cursor where you want to insert the squared symbol.
- Step 2: Press and hold the Alt key on your keyboard.
- Step 3: While holding the Alt key, type the Unicode value for the squared symbol (0178) using the numeric keypad.
- Step 4: Release the Alt key, and the squared symbol (²) will appear.
Method 3: Using AutoCAD’s MTEXT Command
If you frequently need to insert special symbols in AutoCAD, using the MTEXT command can save you time. Here’s how to do it:
- Step 1: Type “MTEXT” in the command line and press Enter.
- Step 2: In the MTEXT Editor window, place your cursor where you want to insert the squared symbol.
- Step 3: Right-click inside the MTEXT Editor window and select “Symbol”.
- Step 4: In the Symbol dialog box, select “Superscript Symbols” from the Subset dropdown list.
- Step 5: Scroll through the available symbols or search for “Squared” in the Character code field. Click on it to select it.
- Step 6: Click on “OK” to insert the squared symbol (²) into your drawing using MTEXT.
By following these methods, you can easily insert a squared symbol in AutoCAD and enhance your technical drawings and designs. Whether you choose to use the Character Map, Unicode values, or the MTEXT command, AutoCAD offers flexibility to meet your needs.
Remember to save your work regularly and experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you. Happy CADing!