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How to Dimension the Radius of an Arc or Circle in AutoCAD?

Published in AutoCAD Dimensioning 3 mins read

To add a radius dimension to an arc or circle in AutoCAD, you utilize the Dimension tool and follow a few simple steps. This process allows you to clearly indicate the radius value on your drawing.

Here's a breakdown of how to achieve this, based on the standard AutoCAD dimensioning workflow:

Steps to Set a Radius Dimension

The process involves selecting the dimension tool and then picking the object you want to dimension.

  1. Access the Dimension Tool: Begin by navigating to the Annotate tab on the ribbon. Within the Dimensions panel, click the Dimension command.

    • Tip: You can also type DIM in the command line and press Enter.

  2. Select the Object: At the prompt, select the specific arc or circle on your drawing that you wish to dimension the radius for.

  3. Specify Dimension Type (Optional but useful): At the prompt that appears after selecting the object, you have the option to explicitly choose the dimension type.

    • Enter r and press Enter for a Radius dimension.
    • Enter d and press Enter for a Diameter dimension.
    • Note: By default, AutoCAD often intelligently suggests the appropriate dimension type based on the object, but manually entering r ensures you get a radius dimension.

  4. Edit or Rotate Text (Optional): Before specifying the dimension line location, the command line may offer options to edit or rotate the dimension text. This allows for fine-tuning the appearance before placement.

  5. Place the Dimension Line: Click in the drawing area to specify where you want the dimension line (and the radius value) to be placed. The position you choose affects how the dimension leader and text are displayed relative to the arc or circle.

Quick Reference Table

Step Action Input/Location
1. Start Command Click Dimension tool or type command Annotate tab > Dimensions panel or DIM
2. Select Object Pick the arc or circle Drawing Area
3. Specify Type (Optional) Choose Radius Command Line (r then Enter)
4. Edit/Rotate Text Modify text appearance (if needed) Command Line options
5. Place Dimension Click to set location Drawing Area

By following these steps, you can accurately represent the radius of your circular objects in your AutoCAD drawings.

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