Datasheet

Chapter 1 • Getting to Know AutoCAD
6
Quick Access Toolbar
Application Menu
Ribbon Tabs
Coordinate Readout
Ribbon
Status Bar
InfoCenterRibbon Panel
View Cube
Cursor
Navigation Bar
Command Window
Command Prompt
UCS Icon
FIGURE 1.4 The AutoCAD Application window using the 2D Drafting & Annotation workspace
Switching the Current Workspace
Whether you choose to develop your own custom workspace or just use one that
comes with the software, you may switch your current workspace at any time. As
you become more comfortable with the software, you’ll likely choose to build a
workspace that better matches the way you use AutoCAD. You’ll be using the 2D
Drafting & Annotation workspace for the first 15 chapters in this book. In the final
two chapters, you’ll switch to the 3D Modeling (Figure 1.5) workspace. For now,
however, you need to get your AutoCAD user interface to look like Figure 1.4.
NOTE The illustrations in this book show the drawing area of the
AutoCAD user interface with a white background; however, the default and
preferred method is to use a dark gray or black background to reduce eye-
strain. The color choice in the book is simply for readability.
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