How Do You Select Multiple Items Without Shifting in AutoCAD?

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AutoCAD is a powerful software used by architects, engineers, and designers to create precise and detailed drawings. One common task in AutoCAD is selecting multiple items without shifting them accidentally. In this tutorial, we will explore different methods to achieve this without any hassle.

Selecting Multiple Items

When working on complex drawings with numerous elements, you often need to select multiple items at once. By default, AutoCAD uses the “Shift” key to add or remove objects from the selection set. However, this can sometimes lead to accidental shifts in your drawing if you’re not careful.

But don’t worry! There are alternative methods available that allow you to select multiple items without shifting them unintentionally.

Method 1: Using the Cross Window Selection

The Cross Window selection method allows you to select multiple items within a specific area on your drawing canvas. Follow these steps:

  1. Step 1: Activate the Cross Window selection tool by typing “CROSSING” or simply “CP” in the command line and pressing Enter.
  2. Step 2: Click and hold your left mouse button outside of the desired area, then drag it diagonally to create a rectangular shape that encompasses all the objects you want to select.
  3. Step 3: Release the mouse button once you have selected all the items you need. Voila! You have successfully selected multiple items without shifting anything accidentally.

This method is particularly useful when you want to select several objects that are scattered around your drawing canvas.

Method 2: Using Fence Selection

The Fence selection method allows you to draw a freehand shape around the objects you want to select. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Step 1: Activate the Fence selection tool by typing “FENCE” or simply “F” in the command line and pressing Enter.
  2. Step 2: Click at various points on your drawing canvas to draw a freehand shape that encompasses all the objects you want to select.
  3. Step 3: Double-click to complete the fence selection. Now, all the objects within the drawn shape will be selected without any accidental shifts.

This method is particularly useful when you have objects that are closely located or overlapping each other.

Method 3: Using Selection Filters

If you have specific criteria for selecting multiple items, you can use Selection Filters. Follow these steps:

  1. Step 1: Activate the Selection Filter tool by clicking on the “Selection Filter” button in the AutoCAD ribbon or by typing “FILTER” in the command line and pressing Enter.
  2. Step 2: In the Selection Filter dialog box, choose the criteria for your selection. For example, if you only want to select circles, choose “Circle” from the list of available object types.
  3. Step 3: Click OK to apply your selection filter.

Now, when you use any selection method (such as window or crossing), AutoCAD will only select objects that match your specified criteria. This eliminates any chance of accidentally shifting unwanted objects.

In Conclusion

Selecting multiple items without shifting in AutoCAD is a crucial skill for efficient and accurate drawing. By using methods like Cross Window selection, Fence selection, or Selection Filters, you can easily select multiple items without any unintended shifts. Remember to choose the method that best suits your needs based on the arrangement of objects in your drawing.

With these techniques in your toolbox, you can now confidently select multiple items in AutoCAD without any worries!