Are you ready to streamline your design process and save time with essential AutoCAD keys and commands?

Our brand-new Shortcut CAD course for learning shortcuts is designed to teach you the basics of CAD and how to maximize your productivity by mastering the keys and commands for AutoCAD.

Whether you’re just starting or a seasoned CAD user, this course will transform how you work with CAD software.

Who Is This CAD Course Made For?

This course is designed for:

• Beginners who want to build a solid CAD foundation while learning AutoCAD’s most important keys and commands.
• Intermediate users aim to enhance their workflow by incorporating faster, more efficient drawing methods.
• Professionals in architecture or engineering still find themselves lost in menus and dialogs and need to work faster.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed navigating AutoCAD’s menus or wished you knew the AutoCAD shortcuts that could make your work faster, this course is perfect for you.

The Essential AutoCAD Keys and Commands You Will Learn

Shortcut CAD will help you master both the essential features of CAD and the time-saving AutoCAD shortcuts that will improve your workflow:

• AutoCAD keys and commands—We’ll teach you the most widely used keys and commands in AutoCAD that professionals depend on to work more efficiently.
• Break down CAD Jargon with real examples and drawing methods that are easy to understand and implement immediately.
• Drawing and editing tools – Master drawing with precision by combining your skills with AutoCAD keys and commands that make editing and adjustments quick and simple.
• Layer management: Learn how to organize your drawings with layers and use over one hundred built-in AutoCAD shortcuts.
• 3D modeling and customization—Use CAD commands to 3D model and customize your workspace to fit your workflow.
• Advanced tools and commands – Dive deeper into AutoCAD keys and commands for block creation, external references, and more to tackle more complex drawings easily.

How Long Will It Take?

You can complete Shortcut CAD in approximately 8-12 hours. If you’re already familiar with CAD, you’ll quickly grasp AutoCAD’s essential keys and commands.

However, if you’re new to CAD, feel free to take your time and fully absorb each module. You can review the lessons anytime, as they never expire.

Why learn these AutoCAD Shortcuts?

The heart of this course lies in the time you’ll save by mastering AutoCAD keys and commands. Here’s what’s in it for you:

• Boost your efficiency with quicker access to tools and commands, saving time on every project.
• Improve accuracy by seamlessly switching between various task using simple commands.
• Enhance collaboration by creating standardized drawings using commonly understood AutoCAD command shortcuts.
• Unlock more job opportunities by demonstrating proficiency in CAD software and the all-important ways to draw faster and more efficiently.

A sample of CAD commands we’ll explore in the course!

Test your knowledge:

Here are the answers (no cheating)

1. What does PDMODE do in AutoCAD?

Sets point display style.2.

2. What is the function of ADDS in AutoCAD?

Adds objects to selection.

3. What does NEA do in AutoCAD?

Nearest snap to objects.

4. What does LAYMAN manage?

Manages layer states.

5. What does IMAGEFRAME control?

Toggles image boundary visibility.

6. What does Ctrl + 1 do in AutoCAD?

Opens the Properties Palette.

7. What is the function of Ctrl + Shift + S in AutoCAD?

Initiates the Save DWG As command.

8. What happens when you press Ctrl + 0?

Activates Clean Screen mode.

What does Ctrl + Shift + V do in AutoCAD?

Pastes objects as a block.

10. What is the result of pressing Ctrl + 3?

Opens the Tool Palettes.

Ready to Master 100+ AutoCAD Keys and Commands?

If you’re serious about improving your CAD skills and getting the most out of your software, our CAD course for learning keys and commands is exactly what you need.

Stop wasting time searching for commands – learn the essential CAD commands to make your work faster, more accurate, and easier.

Sign up for Shortcut CAD today and become more proficient in AutoCAD today.

• Before learning how to draw a door, it’s essential to grasp the fundamentals of drawing in CAD.

Essential Tools for Drawing a Door

• You’ll need the right tools and software to draw a door successfully in plan view, such as AutoCAD. Please familiarize yourself with the key commands listed below.

AutoCAD Commands We Will Be Using to Draw the Door

• LINE Command: Used to draw straight lines, crucial for outlining walls and door edges.
• MOVE Command: Allows you to reposition drawn elements, used for adjusting the door’s location.
• TRIM Command (TR): Used to remove unnecessary parts of wall lines. A quick way to create door openings.
• RECTANGLE Command (REC): Helps in drawing rectangular shapes, used for both the door and its elevation.
• ARC (A): Creates a door swing using the Center option. The Center will be the door’s hinge point
• OFFSET Command (O): Creates parallel lines at a specified distance, useful for adding door trims.
• BLOCKMAKE Command (BM): Creates reusable block elements, and streamlines the door replication process for adding more doors in your drawing
• OBJECT SNAP (OS) and OBJECT SNAP TRACKING: For precision in snapping to specific points and tracking along alignments.

Preparing the Canvas for Your Door Drawing

• Begin by setting up your drawing. Activate object snaps (OS) for precision to make things accurate as you draw a door. In AutoCAD, snapping is done by hovering over a point until the cursor changes shape, indicating that the snap is active. For example, a Square shape suggests an end point. Simply left-click to snap to this point.
• Another important setting to check is DYNMODE (Dynamic Input Setting). Type this into the Command Line and set it to 3.

Determining Your Door’s Position

• The placement of the door you draw is important. Consider the door jam clearance and orientation of the door swing. Below you will find how to position and draw your door using various AutoCAD Commands.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Draw a Door

• Let’s start drawing. First, you’ll need to draw the wall where the door will be located. Use the LINE command to draw a wall line perpendicular to the wall itself (in our case its 3-1/2″), then the MOVE command to position your door.

Creating the Door Opening

• To create a door opening in your plan, use the TRIM command (TR), which effectively removes specific segments of lines or shapes, allowing for the precise formation of the door space within the wall.

Draw the Actual Door (W x H)

• For the door itself, use the RECTANGLE command (REC). Remember to set ‘DYNMODE’ to 3 for dynamic inputs. This will help you input the exact dimensions as you draw a door. These boxes are called Tooltips. You can Tab into them and type the required distance you need.
  
• In our example, we use an X distance of 1-1/2 inches (the width) and a Y distance of 3 feet (the height).
  
• To draw the door swing we use the Arc Command (A) and then C (Enter) to draw the arc from it’s center. We snap to the points on the door starting with the center (at the hinge point) and the arc start point at the opposite end of the door.
  
• Lastly, we snap to the opposite side of the opening to locate the end of Arc.

See this door routine, which creates single and double doors, swings, and breaks the wall.

Create a matching Door Drawing in Elevation

• After drawing the door in plan view, add an elevation of the same door. Use the RECTANGLE command (REC) again, drawing the door’s elevation. Use Dynamic Input to speed things up.

Door Elevation Techniques

• Elevate your door drawing so that it aligns with the plan view drawing. For this utilize ‘OBJECT SNAP TRACKING’ to ensure your elevation lines up accurately.

Finalizing and Reviewing Your Door Drawing

• You can add door swings using the LINE command (L) and then changing the Linetype in the Properties Dialog (activate it using CTRL 1)
  
• To finalize your drawing, you can use the OFFSET command (O) to create the door trim, to create more detail.

Quality Check

• Inspect each part of your drawing to make sure all lines meet properly. You should also check the dimensions match what you need. Tip: One way to check the lengths of objects is to hover over a Grip.

Take it a step further: Using Blocks

• Consider using blocks in CAD to reproduce the door you’ve drawn. This will streamline the process in larger projects and consider building a library of doors for future projects.

Mastering Blocks in Door Design

• Creating blocks is simple. Use the BLOCKMAKE command (BM) to create a reusable component of the door you’ve drawn, saving time in future projects.

Perfecting the process of Drawing a Door

• Learning how to draw a door may take a little practice. But it’s not rocket science!
  
• Learn Command Shortcuts rather than menus and dialogs – eventually, you will memorize them after a few times.
  
• Tip: Master the rectangle command first. You will be surprised how it can be used for almost any straight object.
  
• Zoom in on your work regularly to check details, making sure every part of your door drawing is precise and accurate as you go.

If you’re looking for a quick and efficient way to improve your 2D AutoCAD skills, you’re in the right place! This 12-minute crash course will cover the most essential AutoCAD shortcuts and commands you need to know.

Whether you’re a beginner or need a refresher, these tips will help speed up your workflow and get you drawing like a pro.

Also, grab my essential cheatsheet of AutoCAD shortcut keys and commands – a handy reference for all the shortcuts we’ll discuss today.

CAD Tips for Faster Workflow:

Here are some tips to make your 2D AutoCAD drawing experience even smoother:

• Stay with the Command Line: Use DYNMODE (set to 3) so commands can be entered right at your cursor – no need to move your mouse to the command line.
• Leverage Grips: Use the spacebar to move, rotate, or mirror objects quickly.
• Activate Osnaps: Make sure Osnaps are activated for accurate drawing – only turn on the ones you need for your specific task.
• Use the Status Bar: This lower strip of your interface is a shortcut in itself! You can toggle important settings on and off with just one click or right-click.

Your 2D AutoCAD Essentials

I hope you can take a minute to watch this 12-minute crash course on basic 2D AutoCAD commands. Even if you’ve been using AutoCAD for years, learning (or revisiting) these essential commands will help you work faster and more accurately.

Remember, keyboard shortcuts and commands are your best friends in CAD. Whether drawing or editing, these commands will streamline your workflow and make your CAD days much easier. For a quick reference, grab my AutoCAD shortcut keys cheatsheet.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to easily draw lines, rectangles, and circles.
• Master the power of Osnaps and Grips for precision and control.
• Essential commands for Mirror, Explode, Erase, Trim, and Offset.

Drawing Lines, Rectangles, and Circles:

Let’s start with the basics:

• L for Line – the foundation of any drawing.
• REC for Rectangle – quickly create rectangles.
• C for Circle – an essential shape in many designs.

These basic shapes are the building blocks for most drawings. To draw effortlessly, you can enter these commands directly into the Command Line.

Osnaps and Grips:

Accurate snapping is key for precise drawing, and Osnaps (Object Snaps) help with that. Commands you’ll need:

• OS – Adjust your Osnap Settings for smooth snapping.
• The Tap – Work with Grips to move, rotate, or scale objects with a quick spacebar tap.

Pro tip: Make sure you only have the Osnaps you need activated. This ensures your cursor snaps where you want it to without unwanted distractions.

Mirror, Explode, Erase, Trim, and Offset:

These are fundamental commands for modifying your drawings:

• MI – Mirror your objects with ease.
• X – Explode complex objects back into their parts.
• E – Erase elements with a simple command.
• TR – Trim excess lines for a cleaner design.
• O – Offset to create parallel lines and walls quickly.

Mastering these commands will help you finish your drawings much faster than using dialogs and even constantly using toolbars and Ribbons, which can really slow things down..

Now it’s time to start implementing these shortcuts in your drawing!

Again, grab my essential cheatsheet for AutoCAD shortcut keys and commands. It’s a handy 8 1/2″ x 11″ reference you can pin up in your workplace.

Designed to streamline your productivity – the library can create electrical schematic diagrams or electronic circuit drawings.  The ANSI Y32 is also referred to as the IEEE Std 315.

A pulldown system is also included with the library. Blocks can be quickly inserted and rotated from the menus /thumbnails provided.

ANSI Y32 is a set of standards created by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) that provides guidelines for the engineering drawings and technical documentation used in various industries. ANSI Y32 covers various aspects of drawing symbols, dimensions, and other details required to keep drawings consistent.

IEEE Standard is a spec developed by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). These technical standards apply to various fields, including electrical engineering, software and telecommunications.

Examples of Y32 Symbols

• Resistors, capacitors, inductors etc
• Connectors and Terminals
• Relays, rotary devices
• Transformers
• Switches , Pushbuttons
• Measuring instruments and much more…

These are just a few examples found within our block library. For a visual demo visit our Electrical Symbols product page.

The Y32 library – complete bundle

For your convenience we have bundled both the metric and imperial libraries together.The Y32 – IEEE Std 315  library is the U.S./ imperial version. A metric version named IEC 617 is also included. Both versions of  electrical blocks are essential the same except for the scaling. All blocks are drawing at a 1:1 scale and automatically insert after clicking the appropriate  thumbnail.Additionally you will find ANSI sheets sizes within the library to setup your project using just a few clicks.

Related Electrical Symbology:

• Electrical Symbols (ANSI and IEC)
• IEC & ANSI standards symbols – Video
• Electrical and Fluid Power Symbol Library

Open File Explorer (shortcut: Ctrl + E) and select “This PC.” In the search box, Enter “acad.pat” and hit Enter. This will allow you to find your AutoCAD hatch files.

Pinpointing the File Location: The search will display all the .pat files. Right-click and select ‘Open File Location’ to identify where your AutoCAD hatch patterns are stored.

Copy the Hatch File Path: In the folder, right-click to copy the address. You will use this below to define the hatch pattern location into your AutoCAD Options settings.

The path to your hatch pattern definitions can also be found in the Support folder in AutoCAD. In this path there is a acad.pat file.

A problem may arise when you have multiple AutoCAD installations and/or more than one .pat file. Here’s a quick tip on how to locate your AutoCAD Hatch Patterns and set the path.

Do you still have problems locating the files? PAT files are also in program files under the “your Program Files / Autocad-Version support” folder.

Typical AutoCAD Hatch File Paths:

Typical locations are where %USERNAME% is your name and xx.x is the version. These will vary depending on your machine and version of AutoCAD.

Standard AutoCAD:

C:\Users\%USERNAME%\AppData\Roaming\Autodesk\AutoCAD 20xx\Rxx.x\enu\Support\acad.pat

AutoCAD LT Version:

C:\Users\%USERNAME%\AppData\Roaming\Autodesk\AutoCAD LT 20xx\Rxx.x\enu\Support\acadlt.pat

Remember to replace %USERNAME%, 20xx, and Rxx.x with your specific user and AutoCAD details.

C:\Users\%USERNAME%\AppData\Roaming\Autodesk\AutoCAD LT 20xx\Rxx.x\enu\Support\acadlt.pat

Adding Hatch Paths To Options Dialog

Access The Options Dialog: Type ‘OP’ in the AutoCAD command, opening the Options for hatch file configuration.

Locate Support File Search Path: Navigate to the “Support File Search Path” tab, which is essential for hatch pattern integration.

Apply the PAT File Location: Use ‘Add’ and ‘Browse’ to select the previously copied folder. This directs AutoCAD to your specific hatch patterns.

Prioritizing Your Hatch Patterns: Move your newly added path to the top of the list, ensuring AutoCAD prioritizes these hatch patterns.

Applying and Saving Settings: Click ‘Apply’ and then ‘OK’ to finalize the integration of your AutoCAD hatch patterns.

Test your Hatch Pattern Install

Test the path by typing the HATCH command. If the hatches still don’t show correctly, restart AutoCAD and test again. Also, recheck the path location.

If you make any changes to the Hatch codes within AutoCAD will be stored, you must always use this location when making modifications or adding new Hatch Patterns to avoid any conflicts or errors later down the line.

Troubleshooting Path Issues: If issues arise, revisit the Support File Search Path to verify the correct hatch file placement.
Special Instructions for Older AutoCAD Versions

In some older versions, hatch patterns may be in ‘UserDataCache’, a hidden folder. To view such folders in Windows, go to File Explorer’s ‘View’ tab and enable ‘Hidden items’.

Locating The UserDataCache folder.

The UserDataCache is a hidden folder and cannot be seen without changing your settings.

1. Open File Explorer (Windows+E)

2. Click on the View tab in the File Explorer window.

3. Check the box next to “Hidden items” in the Show/hide section of the ribbon.

4. Hidden folders and files will now be visible in File Explorer.

Once you find the acad.pat (or acadlt.pat), note the path described above and add it to your path. Type OP for options, then move to the top to prioritize and move to the top of the list as explained above.

Four Common Mistakes When Installing AutoCAD Hatch Patterns

Integrating hatch patterns into AutoCAD can significantly enhance your design capabilities, but certain pitfalls can complicate the process. Being aware of these common mistakes can save time and frustration.

1) Incorrect File Path in AutoCAD Settings

A mistake error is placing the .pat file in the wrong directory or inputting an incorrect file path in AutoCAD’s settings. This mistake prevents AutoCAD from locating and displaying the new hatch patterns. Always double-check that the file path in the ‘Support File Search Path’ matches the location of your .pat file, with no misspellings or added spaces.

2) Multiple Versions of AutoCAD and Multiple Hatch Files

When multiple versions of AutoCAD are installed, the .pat files for each version can be different. It’s easy to confuse the wrong folder, leading to hatch patterns not showing up. Have a careful look at the parent folders to find clues as to if you have older CAD versions installed.

3) Locating Hidden Folders Where Hatches May Reside

In some versions of AutoCAD, hatch patterns are stored in hidden folders, such as ‘UserDataCache’. A common issue is not being able to locate these folders due to their hidden status. To access them, make sure to enable the visibility of hidden folders in your file explorer settings.

4) Hatch Path Not High Enough on Path List in Options Menu

If the path to your hatch file isn’t prioritized in AutoCAD’s ‘Support File Search Path’, AutoCAD might not use your desired hatch patterns. The solution is to ensure that your hatch file’s path is high enough, preferably at the top of the list in the AutoCAD options menu. This prioritization helps AutoCAD locate and use your specified hatch patterns as undesired .pat files may be located in other AutoCAD folders.

Check Out Our Wood and Stone AutoCAD Hatch Pattern Collection

For more about the hatch patterns we offer, browse our collection of Wood and Stone AutoCAD Hatch Patterns and watch our instructional YouTube video to see how easy it is to install our AutoCAD hatch .PAT collection.

4 Step Process when Installing Our Hatch Patterns

The process below uses our AutoCAD Hatch Patterns as an example – this works for either a PC or a Mac.

1) Create a hatch pattern folder in your documents folder

2) Unzip your hatch patterns, extract or drag the files into a folder created in Step 1

3) Type OP for Options to see the Support File Search Path

3) Add and Browse to the exact path to the folder you created in Step 1 and Choose Ok

4) Move the path to the top of the Options list and Choose Apply

We can also help you install these patterns if needed.

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The 2D/3D Piping Software Consists of:

• 2D Piping (includes 10,000+ symbols)
• 3D Piping (includes 4,600+ symbols)
• P&ID (includes 220+ symbols)
• Isometric Piping (includes 800+ symbols)

Over 20,000 blocks are included. The piping software is also compatible with any full version of AutoCAD 2006 and newer.The block library provides a great way to lay out piping and create schematics.Categories within the Piping 4-Pack Library consist of:

• 45°, Elbows, Laterals & Tees – Crosses
• Caps – Unions & Couplings
• Weldolets, Thredolets, Sockolets
• Various Valve types
• Expansion Joints and more

In addition, the P&ID consists of Valves, Flow elements. Pumps, Blowers,Tanks, Piping, Equipment, Instrumentation, Electrical and Annotation.AutoCAD draftspersons and designers will appreciate both the quality of the symbols and the organization of the entire package. Use the library to create Process Flow Drawing drawings for water, sewage, steam, petroleum and other materials.The 4 pack library runs in AutoCAD® 2000-2021 within a pull down menu in the top toolbar.1.1 gig of available space required on C: drive. Download size – 255 meg.Remote installation is available at no added cost. A CD backup is also available.

Structural Detailing Bundle Features

• Structural Steel Shapes Utility
• Wblocked polylines on Layer 0
• Created from AISC Manual of Steel Construction.r
• Organized menus and categories
• Works with most all AutoCAD versions (R14-present)

Let Steel Shapes Draw It!

Steel Shapes Structural Steel Bundle, for AutoCAD dynamically creates what you need on the fly so theres no need to look for blocks or redraw your details. It contains a thousands of shapes that work with your specific AutoCAD version.

An Entire Structural Shapes Library – Ready to Roll!

This structural steel shapes package is ready to use just minutes after download. There’s no steep learning curves – everything is ready to use and easily accessible right from the start. You’ll have menus and simple dialog screens that are designed so that you can blaze through your entire project in no time at all.Structural Steel Detailing made easy – simply pick and choose from an organized drop down menu. The Steel Shapes Bundle offers everything you’ll need to be productive at steel shapes detailing .

Steel Shapes 2D Bundle Includes:

Create structural steel shapes in plan, section, elevation or single line as required. Simple or complex shapes are made from a single non-segmented polyline. All shapes are draw as listed in the AISC database.Wide Flange (W) shapes from W4 x 13 to W44 x 335 28I-Beam (S) shapes from S3 x 5.7 to S24 x 121 28Channel (C) shapes from C3 x 4.1 to C15 x 50 33Misc. Channel (MC) shapes from MC6 x 12 to MC18 x 58 94Square Hollow (H) sections from H1-1/2 x 1-1/2 x 3/16 to H30 x 30 x 5/8 202Rectangular Hollow (H) sections from H2-1/2 x 2-1/2 x 3/16 to H30 x 24 x 1/2 277Pipe sections from 1/8 x Sch.5 to 60 x Sch.XH and 8 x Sch.XXH 122Angle (L) shapes from L2 x L2 x 1/8 to L9 x 4 x 5/8Get your copy today – product will deliver immediately (after checkout).

Hi, let me introduce myself. My name is Erik Zetterberg, the founder of SimpleCAD.com. Since 1983 I have been involved with AutoCAD and 3rd party CAD applications. During this period I wrote several AutoCAD related add-ons, including a popular 3D roof modeling package while working with various firms.

Then in the late 90’s I switched careers and became a webmaster for several niche sites and later launched a SEO consulting firm at Rankbydesign.com which led me to where I am now. My work at Cadopolis – Prior to opening this site I was head web developer at Cadopolis, a firm based just outside of Toronto, Canada.

While working there I was able to see Cadopolis grow up to become one of the largest CAD shopping sites on the web. During this time Cadopolis had a great reputation for their customer support and reliable software delivery. One of my primary responsibilities at Cadopolis was not only to support, but maintain and optimize over 300 CAD Products pages.

Roof built by RBT

Although the site was really a success during the first few years, sales began to give way in late 2008. Unfortunately Cadopolis, like many other businesses during this period, finally had to change their focus due to the lagging economy. (note: you can still visit the site today to view the products there but as far I know, none are available for purchase).

So then in early February 2010, with the permission of Cadopolis, I decided launch a similar site … continuing with the same theme but with a more simplified and clearer approach to CAD add-ons … hence the name SimpleCAD.

There we added CAD Blocks, Utilities and an assortment of AutoCAD Books.‍

SimpleCAD’s Mission‍

The primary goal at SimpleCAD is to provide top-notch support. We stand behind every product we sell and take the extra step to ensure that every products listed gets the same treatment.

Our hours are 8-5 PST, M-F. Call us now on our toll free help line at 877-933-3929 or email us, you question will be addressed the same day! We are committed to keep our programming and support staff local to the U.S.Please contact us with any questions you may have.

Related:

About SimpleCAD

P&ID Symbols Available Are:

• Process and Signal Line Types
• Valves
• Valve operators
• Flow elements
• Pumps & Blowers
• Tanks
• Piping
• Equipment
• Instrumentation & Electrical
• Annotation

By connecting these symbols with piping, valves, you can show the sequence and describe how the systems connect. The P&ID library we offer runs in either AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT’s menu bar for quick access. Simply point and click to choose from a wide range of P&ID symbols. See: P&ID Symbols