Starting a new drawing in AutoCAD is a fundamental first step for any project. The primary method involves utilizing the program's initial interface.
Using the Start Tab
The most common and direct way to begin a new drawing session is through the Start tab.
Steps to Start a New Drawing
Follow these simple steps to open a new drawing file:
- Open AutoCAD.
- Locate the Start tab. This is typically the first tab you see when the program launches or when no drawings are currently open.
- On the Start tab, click New.
What Happens Next?
After clicking New, one of two things will occur, depending on your AutoCAD configuration:
- A new drawing will immediately open. This drawing is based on the default drawing template file configured in your AutoCAD settings. Templates (.dwt files) provide pre-set configurations like units, layers, dimension styles, and layouts, ensuring consistency.
- If a default drawing template file has not been specified, the Select Template dialog box will be displayed.
Choosing a Template
If the Select Template dialog box appears, you will need to choose an appropriate drawing template file from the list.
- Why choose? Selecting a template ensures your new drawing starts with the correct settings for your specific task, whether it's architectural, mechanical, or general drafting, often including predefined layers, styles, and units (e.g., inches or millimeters).
- Browse the available templates and select the one that best suits your needs. Standard AutoCAD installations come with several templates (e.g.,
acad.dwt
,acadiso.dwt
). - Once selected, click Open to create your new drawing based on that template.
By following these steps using the Start tab and the New command, you can easily initiate a blank canvas or a drawing pre-configured with specific standards, ready for your design work.