You can easily access the print preview function in AutoCAD to verify your drawing layout before sending it to a printer.
Accessing the Print Preview Function
To see exactly how your drawing or layout will appear when printed, AutoCAD provides a dedicated print preview option. This step is crucial for checking margins, scale, plot styles, and overall composition, helping you avoid costly printing errors.
Based on the provided references, here is the straightforward method to perform a print preview:
- Click the File tab.
- Navigate to Print.
- Click Print Preview.
This sequence directly opens the preview window, showing your drawing exactly as it will be plotted according to your current page setup or plot settings.
Note: If the print job you are previewing is particularly large or complex, you may observe a Cancel button displayed on the status bar. This allows you to stop the preview process if it is taking too long.
After Previewing
Once you have reviewed the print preview and are satisfied with the layout and settings, you can proceed to the actual printing process. This typically involves:
- Closing the preview window (often by pressing
Escor clicking the 'Plot' button within the preview). - Clicking Print again (or choosing Plot from the application menu/ribbon).
- Completing the Print dialog box (selecting printer, paper size, plot area, scale, etc.).
- Clicking OK in the Print dialog to send the job to the printer.
Why Use Print Preview?
Using print preview is an essential step in the AutoCAD workflow because it allows you to:
- Verify Plot Style: Ensure colors, lineweights, and linetypes will print as intended.
- Check Margins and Scale: Confirm the drawing fits correctly on the selected paper size and at the desired scale.
- Review Layout: See how viewports, title blocks, and other drawing elements are positioned.
- Catch Errors: Identify potential issues before wasting paper and ink.
Incorporating print preview into your plotting process ensures accuracy and saves resources.
