AutoCAD Tip: AutoCAD Keyboard Shortcuts and Alias Configuration

Keyboard shortcuts are the fastest way to turn repetitive clicks into precise, consistent actions. Learn a core set, then customize a few to match your workflow.

Essential shortcuts to memorize (Windows defaults):

• Drawing and editing
  • L Line, PL Polyline, C Circle, REC Rectangle
  • M Move, CO Copy, RO Rotate, SC Scale
  • TR Trim, EX Extend, F Fillet, CHA Chamfer
  • S Stretch, O Offset, X Explode, J Join
  • LA Layer Properties Manager, PR Properties palette
  • ZE Zoom Extents (clean up your view instantly)
• System and navigation
  • Space or Enter Repeat last command
  • Ctrl+1 Properties, Ctrl+2 DesignCenter, Ctrl+3 Tool Palettes
  • Ctrl+0 Clean Screen, Ctrl+9 Toggle Command Line, F2 Text Window
  • F3 Object Snap, F8 Ortho, F10 Polar Tracking, F11 Otrack, F12 Dynamic Input
  • Shift+Right‑Click OSnap menu (faster than hunting icons)
  • Press and hold mouse wheel to pan; wheel scroll to zoom
  • Alt shows Ribbon Key Tips (press letters to access commands without the mouse)
• Mac tip: swap Ctrl for Command on most palette toggles; function keys may require fn.

Customize aliases (two-minute setup, lifetime gains):

• Use ALIASEDIT to edit command aliases without opening files, or edit acad.pgp directly.
• After changes, run REINIT and check PGP to reload without restarting AutoCAD.
• Keep aliases short and ergonomic (single letter for your top 10 commands, double letters for the rest).

Create keyboard shortcuts (beyond aliases):

• Open CUI (Customize User Interface) > Keyboard Shortcuts > Shortcut Keys.
• Add a new shortcut (e.g., Ctrl+Shift+L) to any command or macro, and avoid conflicts.
• Export your CUIX and PGP to a shared location so your team can standardize. If you need guidance on deployment or licensing, the experts at NOVEDGE can help.

Adopt a simple learning plan:

• Week 1: Memorize 10 essentials (L, PL, C, M, CO, TR, EX, O, F, LA).
• Week 2: Add system toggles (F3, F8, F10, F12, Ctrl+1, Ctrl+3, Ctrl+9).
• Week 3: Customize 5 aliases to match your habits; print a one-page cheat sheet.

Pro tips:

• Use consistent aliases across projects and machines to preserve muscle memory.
• Reserve single-letter aliases for your highest-frequency commands; move rarely used ones to longer keys.
• Document your set in your template notes or CAD standards. For team rollouts, explore AutoCAD subscriptions and add-ons at NOVEDGE.

When every second counts, shortcuts pay back immediately. If you’re upgrading or standardizing a team environment, consult NOVEDGE for tailored solutions and training resources.