AutoCAD is a widely-used software application for computer-aided design (CAD) and drafting. If you are new to AutoCAD or have been using it for a while, you might be wondering where your files are being saved. In this article, we will explore the default file location of AutoCAD and how you can change it according to your preferences.
Default File Location
By default, AutoCAD saves files in the “Documents” folder on your computer. This is the default location set by the software to ensure easy access and organization of your drawings. When you save a new file in AutoCAD, it will be stored in the “Documents” folder unless you specify a different location.
If you are unable to locate your files, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Open File Explorer on your computer.
- Step 2: Navigate to the “Documents” folder.
- Step 3: Look for a subfolder named “AutoCAD” or “AutoCAD Files”.
- Step 4: Your drawings should be stored within this subfolder.
If you still cannot find your files, it is possible that you have changed the default file location or saved them in a different folder manually.
Changing the Default File Location
If you prefer to save your AutoCAD files in a different folder or drive, you can easily change the default file location. Follow these steps to modify the settings:
- Step 1: Open AutoCAD on your computer.
- Step 2: Go to the “Options” menu. You can access it by clicking on the “Tools” tab in the top menu bar and selecting “Options”.
- Step 3: In the Options dialog box, click on the “Files” tab.
- Step 4: Look for the “Default Template File Name” section.
- Step 5: Click on the folder icon next to the “Default File Location” field.
- Step 6: Choose a new folder or drive where you want to save your AutoCAD files.
- Step 7: Click “OK” to save your changes.
Once you have changed the default file location, all new drawings will be saved in the specified folder or drive. However, keep in mind that this change does not affect previously saved files. They will remain in their original location unless you move them manually.
In Conclusion
In AutoCAD, files are saved by default in the “Documents” folder on your computer. If you cannot find your files, check for a subfolder named “AutoCAD” or “AutoCAD Files”.
You can also change the default file location by accessing the Options dialog box and modifying the settings under the Files tab. Remember that changing these settings does not affect previously saved files.
I hope this article has provided you with a clear understanding of where AutoCAD saves files and how to change the default file location. By organizing your drawings effectively, you can improve your workflow and easily locate your projects whenever needed.