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How do I select only dimensions in AutoCAD?

Published in AutoCAD Dimensions 3 mins read

You can select only dimensions in AutoCAD using the FILTER command or by utilizing the Quick Select feature. Here's how to do it using both methods:

Method 1: Using the FILTER Command

This method allows for precise selection based on object properties.

  1. Initiate the Filter Command: Type FILTER into the command line and press Enter. This opens the Object Selection Filters dialog box.

  2. Define the Filter:

    • In the "Select Filter" section, choose "Dimension" from the dropdown menu.
    • The properties for dimensions will be displayed. You can further refine the filter by specifying properties like dimension style or layer, if needed. Leave the default values if you want to select all dimensions regardless of their specific properties.

  3. Add to List: Click "Add to List." The "Dimension" filter will appear in the filter list.

  4. Apply the Filter: Click "Apply". AutoCAD prompts you to "Select objects".

  5. Select Objects: Use a window selection (clicking and dragging) to encompass the area containing the dimensions you wish to select. You can also type ALL to select all objects in the drawing.

  6. Confirmation: After the selection, only the dimensions that meet the filter criteria will be selected. They are now ready for any subsequent command (e.g., moving, deleting, changing properties).

Method 2: Using Quick Select

This method is faster for simple selection based on object type.

  1. Initiate Quick Select: Type QSELECT into the command line and press Enter. This opens the Quick Select dialog box.

  2. Define Selection Criteria:

    • Apply to: Choose whether to apply the selection to the entire drawing or the currently selected objects.
    • Object type: Select "Dimension" from the dropdown menu.
    • Properties: (Optional) Refine the selection further by choosing a property and value (e.g., Layer = "Dimensions"). Generally, leave the defaults if you want all dimension types selected.
    • Operator: Choose an operator for the property (e.g., "Equals," "Not equal to").
    • Value: Enter the value for the property (e.g., if the property is Layer, and the value is "Dimensions", then only Dimensions on that layer will be selected.).
    • How to apply: The default 'Include in new selection set' should be correct to just create a selection of only those objects that match the specified settings.

  3. OK: Click "OK". All dimensions that meet the defined criteria will be automatically selected.

Summary

Both the FILTER command and QSELECT feature allow you to efficiently select only dimensions in AutoCAD. The FILTER command provides greater flexibility for complex selection criteria based on specific properties, while QSELECT offers a quicker method for simpler selections based on object type.

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