Selecting and moving objects in AutoCAD is a fundamental skill that every user should master. Whether you are new to AutoCAD or have been using it for years, understanding how to efficiently select and move elements can greatly enhance your productivity. In this article, we will explore the various methods of selecting and moving objects in AutoCAD.
Selecting Objects
Before you can move an object, you need to select it. AutoCAD provides multiple ways to select objects, catering to different preferences and requirements.
1. Using the Mouse
The most common way to select objects in AutoCAD is by using the mouse. To do this:
- Single-Click: Simply click on an object with the left mouse button to select it.
- Window Selection: Click and drag the cursor from left to right to create a selection window. Any object within or intersecting with this window will be selected.
- Crossing Selection: Click and drag the cursor from right to left to create a crossing selection window.
Only objects completely enclosed within this window will be selected.
- Lasso Selection: Click and drag the cursor around the desired objects in a freehand manner. Any object intersected or enclosed by the lasso will be selected.
2. Using Selection Methods
In addition to using the mouse, AutoCAD offers several selection methods that can be accessed through the command line or toolbar icons:
- Select All (Ctrl+A): Selects all visible objects within the drawing.
- Select Similar (Ctrl+Shift+A): Selects objects with similar properties to the one currently selected.
- Select by Window Polygon: Allows you to create a polygonal selection window by specifying multiple points.
- Select by Crossing Polygon: Similar to the previous method, but the selection is made using a crossing polygon.
Moving Objects
Once you have selected the desired objects, it’s time to move them. AutoCAD provides several methods for moving objects, giving you flexibility in how you manipulate your drawings. Using the Move Command
The most straightforward way to move objects in AutoCAD is by using the Move command. Here’s how:
- Select the objects you want to move.
- Type “MOVE” in the command line and press Enter.
- Specify a base point or displacement: You can either select a base point as a reference for moving or enter specific distances along the X, Y, and Z axes to move the objects.
- Select a destination point: Specify where you want to place the selected objects.
2. Using Grips
Grips are small squares or circles that appear on selected objects. They allow you to dynamically modify an object’s position without using commands explicitly. To move an object using grips:
- Select the object(s) by clicking on them.
- Click on any grip point and drag it to a new location. The object will move accordingly.
Note: Grips are not available for all types of objects in AutoCAD. However, they are widely used for simple shapes like lines, circles, and rectangles.
3. Using the Nudge Function
The Nudge function is a quick way to move objects by small increments. To nudge an object:
- Select the object(s) you want to move.
- Press the “Ctrl” key and use the arrow keys to move the objects in the desired direction.
This method is particularly useful when you need to make precise adjustments or align objects with existing geometry.
Conclusion
Mastering the selection and movement of objects in AutoCAD is essential for efficient drafting and design. By utilizing various selection methods and understanding different moving techniques, you can streamline your workflow and create accurate drawings with ease. Experiment with these methods in your next AutoCAD project and witness a boost in productivity!