How to Draw a Window in Layout in AutoCAD?

To draw a window (more accurately referred to as a layout viewport) in AutoCAD's layout (paper space), follow these steps:

Creating a New Layout Viewport

Access the Layout Tab: If you don't already have a layout tab, create one by clicking the "+" (New Layout) tab usually located next to the Model tab at the bottom of the AutoCAD interface.
Access Viewport Commands: Navigate to the "Layout" tab in the ribbon.
Choose a Viewport Creation Option:
- Rectangular: This is the most common method. Click the "Rectangular" option in the "Layout Viewports" panel (or type VIEWPORT in the command line and press Enter). Then, specify the first corner point of the viewport, and then the opposite corner. This will create a rectangular window showing your model space.
- Polygonal: This option lets you create a viewport with an irregular shape. Click the "Polygonal" option and define the points that make up the shape of your viewport. Close the polygon (usually by typing C and pressing Enter) to complete the viewport.
- Object: This converts an existing closed object (like a circle, rectangle, or closed polyline) into a viewport. Draw the shape you want to use for your viewport first. Then, select the "Object" option and click on the object you created.

Activating the Viewport: Double-click inside the viewport to activate it. This allows you to pan and zoom within model space.
Panning and Zooming: Use the pan and zoom commands to position the desired view within the viewport.
Setting the Scale: Select the viewport boundary. You can set a precise scale (e.g., 1:100) by using the "Viewport Scale" control typically found in the AutoCAD status bar (at the bottom of the screen). Alternatively, you can access the Properties palette (Ctrl+1), select the viewport, and adjust the "Standard Scale" and "Custom Scale" properties. Locking the display after setting the scale is recommended to prevent accidental changes.
Deactivating the Viewport: Double-click outside the viewport to return to paper space. You can now work on annotations, title blocks, and other elements in your layout without affecting the model space view.

Resizing: Click on the viewport border to select it. Use the grips that appear to resize the viewport.
Moving: Click on the viewport border and drag it to a new location on the layout.
Properties: Select the viewport and open the Properties palette (Ctrl+1) to adjust various settings, such as layer visibility, shade plot settings, and display lock.