To quickly change sketching planes in a 3D sketch in SolidWorks, you use the Tab key.
When you are working within a 3D sketch, SolidWorks defaults to sketching on a plane relative to the model's default coordinate system. This is often the Front plane, but you can switch between the three primary default planes (Front, Top, and Right) dynamically while sketching.
Here's the straightforward method:
Changing the Active Sketching Plane
To switch to one of the other two default planes while actively sketching in a 3D sketch:
- Select a Sketch Tool: Begin a sketch command, such as the Line, Rectangle, or Circle tool.
- Press the Tab Key: While the sketch tool is active, press the Tab key on your keyboard. Each press of the Tab key cycles through the three default planes (typically Front, Top, and Right).
- Observe the Change: SolidWorks visually indicates the currently active sketch plane. The origin of the current sketch plane is displayed, helping you orient your sketching relative to that plane.
- Reference Information: According to SolidWorks documentation, when creating a 3D sketch, you sketch relative to the default coordinate system. To switch to one of the other two default planes, click the required sketch tool, and press the Tab key. The origin of the current sketch plane is displayed.
This method allows you to easily transition from sketching in the X-Y direction (relative to one plane) to the X-Z or Y-Z directions (relative to the other planes) without exiting the sketch command or sketch environment.
Visual Indicator
As you press the Tab key, you will notice the sketch grid and the orientation reference (often a coordinate triad) change to align with the currently active sketching plane. This visual feedback confirms which plane you are currently sketching on.
This quick shortcut is essential for creating complex 3D geometry directly in a 3D sketch environment by allowing you to move between the principal orientations seamlessly.
