Datasheet
Introducing the AutoCAD Application Window 11
The icon composed of two lines, labeled X and Y, in the lower-left corner of
the drawing area is the UCS icon (UCS stands for user coordinate system). It
indicates the positive direction for the x- and y-axes.
Below the drawing area is the Command Line window, shown in Figure1.12.
FIGURE 1.12 The command-line window
Most commands can be launched in a few different ways (the Command Line,
Ribbon tools, and so on). Regardless of which method you choose, the Command Line
window (also called the Command window) is where you will tell the program what to
do and where the program tells you what’s happening. It’s an important feature, and
you’ll need to learn how it works in detail. By default, three lines of text are visible. You’ll
learn how to adjust the number of visible lines later in this chapter, in the “Working in
the Command Line Window” section. When the Dynamic Input feature is active, much
of the command window information is displayed alongside the cursor as well.
Below the command window is the status bar (see Figure1.13).
FIGURE 1.13 The left side of the status bar (top) and the right side
of the status bar (bottom)
On the left end of the status bar, you’ll see a coordinate readout window. In
the middle are 14 buttons (LT has only 11) that activate various drawing modes.
It’s important to learn about the coordinate system and most of these drawing
aids (Snap Mode, Grid Display, Ortho Mode, Object Snap, and so on) early as you
learn to draw in AutoCAD. They will help you create neat and accurate draw-
ings. You’ll have the chance to explore each of the following drawing modes/aids
throughout this book; as a preview, however, following is a complete list with a
brief description of each:
Infer Constraints* When this is enabled, AutoCAD will automatically apply
constraints between objects as you create or modify them.
Snap Mode Restricts movement of the cursor inside the drawing area to speci-
fied intervals.
* Designates drawing modes that are exclusive to AutoCAD and not available in AutoCAD LT.
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