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How do I measure dimensions in AutoCAD?

Published in AutoCAD Dimensions 2 mins read

You can measure dimensions in AutoCAD using several methods, depending on what you need to measure. Here's a breakdown of common approaches:

1. The MEASUREGEOM Command (Quick Measure):

  • This is often the fastest way to get a quick sense of dimensions.
  • Type MEASUREGEOM or MEA in the command line and press Enter.
  • Hover your cursor over objects. AutoCAD dynamically displays lengths, angles, and areas near the cursor.
  • The small orange square indicates a 90-degree angle is being measured.

2. The DIST (Distance) Command:

  • Type DIST or DI in the command line and press Enter.
  • Specify the first point.
  • Specify the second point.
  • AutoCAD will display the distance, angle, and delta X, Y, and Z values between the two points.

3. Dimensioning Tools (for Permanent Measurements):

  • Use the dimensioning tools on the "Annotate" tab of the ribbon. These create associative dimensions that update if the geometry changes. Common dimension types include:
    • Linear: Measures horizontal or vertical distances.
    • Aligned: Measures the distance between two points, regardless of the angle.
    • Angular: Measures angles between lines or arcs.
    • Radius/Diameter: Measures the radius or diameter of circles and arcs.
    • Arc Length: Measures the length along an arc.
  • Select the appropriate dimension type from the ribbon.
  • Follow the prompts to select the objects or points you want to dimension.
  • Place the dimension line and text.

4. Area Measurement:

  • AREA Command: Type AREA in the command line and press Enter. You can then:
    • Specify points to define the area boundary.
    • Select an existing object (e.g., a polyline or circle).
  • AutoCAD will display the area and perimeter (or circumference) of the selected region.

Tips for Accurate Measurements:

  • Object Snaps (OSNAPS): Use object snaps (endpoint, midpoint, center, intersection, etc.) to precisely select points for dimensioning. Type OSNAP or OS to access and configure your object snap settings. Make sure the relevant snaps are turned on.
  • Units: Ensure your drawing units are set correctly (e.g., millimeters, inches, meters). Use the UNITS command to adjust.
  • Precision: Adjust the precision of your displayed dimensions using the dimension style settings (DIMSTYLE).

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