Opening a new file in AutoCAD is a fundamental step for starting any drawing project. The most common way involves selecting a template that provides the necessary settings for your work.
Simple Steps to Create a New Drawing
Based on the provided reference video, the process is straightforward:
- Locate the New Option: Start AutoCAD. Look for a "new option" within the application interface. This is often found on the initial "Get Started" screen or under the "File" menu.
- Click the New Option: As shown in the reference at approximately the 0:35 mark, click on this "new option".
- Select Template Dialog Box: Clicking "new" will open the "Select Template" dialog box.
- Choose a Template: From the list of available templates, select the one that best suits your project needs. For instance, if you intend to draft 2D objects, the reference specifically suggests selecting the "ACad template".
Choosing the correct template is important as it preconfigures settings like units, layers, dimension styles, and more, saving you time later.
Understanding Templates
Templates in AutoCAD are drawing files (.dwt) that contain predefined settings and objects. Using a template ensures consistency across your drawings and provides a starting point tailored to specific types of work (e.g., architectural, mechanical, 2D, 3D).
Common templates include:
- acad.dwt: A general 2D template.
- acadiso.dwt: A 2D template using metric (ISO) units.
- acad3d.dwt: A general 3D template.
- acadiso3d.dwt: A 3D template using metric (ISO) units.
Selecting the "ACad template" as mentioned in the reference is ideal for standard 2D drafting in imperial units.
Alternative Methods (Beyond the Reference)
While the reference focuses on the template method, other ways to open a new file exist:
- Using the Start Tab: Modern AutoCAD versions often have a "Start" tab where you can click "+ New Drawing" or select a template directly.
- Command Line: Type
NEW
and press Enter. This also opens the "Select Template" dialog box.
However, the core principle remains the same: selecting a suitable template is key to setting up your new drawing environment correctly from the start.
In Summary
Creating a new AutoCAD file typically involves accessing the "new" function, which then prompts you to choose a template from the "Select Template" dialog box. Selecting a template like the "ACad template" is crucial for setting up your drawing space, especially for specific types of work like 2D drafting.