Datasheet

When you make changes to the new workspace by adding a toolbar or chang-
ing the background color of the drawing area, you can easily update the current
workspace to accommodate those changes. Follow steps 1 and 2, naming the
workspace again with the same name. You’ll get a warning window telling you
that a workspace by that name already exists and asking you whether you want
the new arrangement to replace the old one. Click Yes.
Using the Keyboard
The keyboard is an important tool for entering data and commands. If you’re a
good typist, you can gain speed in working with AutoCAD by learning how to
enter commands from the keyboard. AutoCAD provides what are called alias
commands—single keys or key combinations that start any of several frequently
used commands. You can add more or change the existing aliases as you become
more familiar with the program.
In addition to the alias commands, you can use several of the F keys (function
keys) on the top row of the keyboard as two-way or three-way toggles to turn
AutoCAD functions on and off. Although buttons on the screen duplicate these
functions (Snap, Grid, and so on), it’s sometimes faster to use the F keys.
While working in AutoCAD, you’ll need to enter a lot of data, such as dimen-
sions and construction notes; answer questions with “yes” or “no,” and use the
arrow keys. You’ll use the keyboard constantly. It might help to get into the habit
of keeping your left hand on the keyboard and your right hand on the mouse if
you’re right-handed, or the other way around if you’re left-handed.
Using the Mouse
Your mouse most likely has two buttons and a scroll wheel. So far in this chap-
ter, you have used the left mouse button to choose menus, commands, and
options, and you’ve held it down to drag the Ribbon. The left mouse button is
the one you’ll be using most often, but you’ll also use the right mouse button.
While drawing, you’ll use the right mouse button for the following three
operations:

To display a menu containing options relevant to the particular step
you’re in at the moment
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