How do I rotate a text box in AutoCAD?

To rotate text in AutoCAD, which effectively rotates the bounding box of the text entity (often perceived as a "text box"), you can use the Express Tools or a command line option.

Here's how to achieve this:

Methods for Rotating Text in AutoCAD

AutoCAD provides specific tools to quickly change the orientation of existing text objects, whether they are single-line text or multi-line text (mtext).

Method 1: Using the Express Tools Ribbon

The Express Tools offer a convenient way to modify text properties, including rotation.

• Step 1: Ensure the Express Tools are loaded and visible in your Ribbon.
• Step 2: Navigate to the Express Tools tab on the Ribbon.
• Step 3: Within the Text Panel, locate and expand the Modify Text options.
• Step 4: Click on Rotate.
• Step 5: Follow the prompts to select the text objects you wish to rotate and specify the new orientation.

This graphical method is intuitive for users who prefer working with the Ribbon interface.

Method 2: Using the TORIENT Command

For users who prefer the command line or scripting, the TORIENT command is a powerful alternative.

• Step 1: Type TORIENT into the command line and press Enter.
• Step 2: Select all of the text whose orientation you wish to change. You can select multiple text objects at once.
• Step 3: Press ENTER to confirm your selection.
• Step 4: You will then be prompted to specify the desired orientation angle. You can enter an angle or pick two points to define the new rotation.

The TORIENT command is particularly useful for quickly changing the orientation of many text objects to a specific angle or relative direction.

Summary of Rotation Options

Here's a quick look at the two primary methods:

Feature	Express Tools (Rotate)	TORIENT Command
Interface	Ribbon (Graphical)	Command Line
Location	Express Tools > Text > Modify Text	Type TORIENT
Usage	Click icon, select text, specify rotation	Type command, select text, specify rotation
Advantage	Visually accessible on Ribbon	Fast for multiple texts or scripting

Both methods achieve the same result: changing the orientation angle of selected text objects in your drawing. Choose the method that best fits your workflow.