Datasheet

18 Chapter1•GettingtoKnowAutoCAD
will separate the top two lines of text from the bottom line of text. When you
close the program, AutoCAD will save the new settings. The next time you start
AutoCAD, the command window will display four lines of text.
FIGURE 1.17 Resizing the command window
The command window is where you give information to AutoCAD and where
AutoCAD prompts you for the next step in executing a command. It’s a good
practice to keep an eye on the command window as you work on your drawing.
Many errors can occur when you don’t check it frequently. If the Dynamic Input
button on the status bar is in the On position, some of the information in the
command window will appear in the drawing area next to the cursor. You’ll learn
about this feature when you start drawing.
Before you begin to draw in the next chapter, take a close look at the Ribbon,
Application menu, toolbars, and keyboard controls.
NOTE You can start AutoCAD commands in a number of ways: from
the Ribbon, the Application menu, the command window, and the menus that
appear when you right-click. When you get used to drawing with AutoCAD,
you’ll learn some shortcuts that start commands quickly, and you’ll find the
way that best suits you.
Using the Ribbon
Perhaps one of the most prominent elements of the AutoCAD interface is the
Ribbon (Figure1.20). Although the Ribbon can be positioned in various ways,
its default position extends across the top of the AutoCAD window. Depending
on the size of your AutoCAD window (or current screen resolution), the Ribbon
may look a little different on your computer. That’s because the Ribbon self-
adjusts according to the size of the AutoCAD window itself. To see the Ribbon
in its fully expanded state, you need to be sure to have a screen resolution wider
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