What Is the Fastest Way to Measure Area in AutoCAD?

Measuring area is an essential task in AutoCAD, especially when it comes to designing and planning projects accurately. While there are multiple ways to measure area in AutoCAD, some methods are faster and more efficient than others. In this tutorial, we will explore the fastest way to measure area in AutoCAD using the AREA command.

Using the AREA Command

The AREA command in AutoCAD is a powerful tool that allows you to quickly calculate the area of a closed boundary or object. To use this command, follow these steps:

  1. Accessing the Command
  2. To access the AREA command, you can either type ‘AREA’ into the command line or navigate to ‘Modify’ > ‘Properties’ > ‘Area’ from the menu bar.

  3. Selecting Objects
  4. After activating the AREA command, you need to select the objects for which you want to measure the area. You can select individual objects or use a selection method such as ‘Window’ or ‘Polygon’. Once you have made your selection, press Enter.

  5. Viewing Results
  6. After selecting the objects, AutoCAD will display a prompt asking if you want to calculate additional areas.

    If you have selected all the necessary objects, press Enter again. The calculated area will then be displayed in both the command line and as an annotation near the selected object.

  7. Using Quick Properties
  8. If you prefer a more visual approach, you can enable Quick Properties by typing ‘QUICKPROPERTIES’ into the command line and setting it to On. With Quick Properties enabled, selecting an object will display its properties, including its area, in a floating palette.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips to help you measure area faster in AutoCAD:

  • Isolate Objects: If you are working with a complex drawing and only want to measure the area of specific objects, you can use the ISOLATEOBJECTS command to temporarily hide other elements.
  • Use Layers: Grouping objects on different layers can make it easier to select and measure specific areas without interference from other elements.
  • Create Polylines: Converting multiple lines or arcs into a single polyline can simplify the process of measuring their collective area.
  • Apply Hatch Patterns: Hatching enclosed areas not only enhances visual representation but also allows you to use the AREA command on them directly.

In Conclusion

The AREA command in AutoCAD is undoubtedly the fastest way to measure area accurately. By following the steps outlined above and utilizing additional tips, you can streamline your workflow and improve productivity when it comes to measuring area in AutoCAD. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t hesitate to experiment and explore other AutoCAD commands that can further enhance your drafting skills!