How to Add Dynamic Input in AutoCAD

To add or turn on Dynamic Input in AutoCAD, you need to activate it from the status bar.

Dynamic Input is a feature that provides a command interface near the cursor, displaying command prompts and allowing you to input distances, angles, and other values directly. Turning it on is straightforward:

Steps to Enable Dynamic Input

The primary way to enable Dynamic Input is through the AutoCAD status bar.

1. Locate the Status Bar: The status bar is typically situated in the lower right-hand corner of the AutoCAD application window.
2. Find the Dynamic Input Button: Look for the Dynamic Input button (which often looks like a small cursor with input fields) on the status bar.
3. Click the Button: Click the Dynamic Input button ( ) on the status bar to turn dynamic input on and off.

What if the Button Isn't Visible?

If you cannot see the Dynamic Input button on your status bar, it might be hidden.

• Click Customization: Click the Customization button ( ), which is the right-most button on the status bar.
• Add Dynamic Input: In the menu that appears, find "Dynamic Input" and click on it to add it to the status bar. A checkmark will appear next to it when it's enabled.

Once the button is visible and toggled on (often indicated by being highlighted or blue), Dynamic Input will be active during your drawing commands.

Using Dynamic Input

When Dynamic Input is active, you will see information and prompts appear near your cursor as you execute commands like LINE, CIRCLE, or MOVE.

• Command Prompts: Instead of looking at the command line, prompts will appear in a tooltip-like box.
• Value Input: You can type values for distances, angles, and radii directly into the fields shown near the cursor.
• Tabbing: Use the Tab key to move between different input fields (e.g., from distance to angle).

Enabling Dynamic Input significantly changes the command interaction experience in AutoCAD, often making drafting quicker and more intuitive for many users.