12 FUNCTION KEYS IN AUTOCAD-You Need To Know

In this post, we will discuss all the function keys(AutoCAD) along with its features in detail.

In this article

• AutoCAD Function keys shortcuts.
• How to assign keyboard function keys in AutoCAD?

AutoCAD Function keys shortcuts.

AutoCAD is one of the best 2d drafting software used in the mechanical and electrical industries over decades. The function keys in AutoCAD are used to turn on /off the commands in AutoCAD.

Here is the list of function keys and their uses in the AutoCAD software.

FUNCTION KEYS	FEATURES	DESCRIPTION
F1	Help	Opens up the help window in AutoCAD
F2	Command history	Shows the recently used commands in a window
F3	Object snap	Turns the object snap on /off
F4	3-D Object snap	Turns the 3d object snap on/off
F5	ISOPLANES	Switch the iso planes in case of isometric drawing
F6	DYNAMIC UCS	Turns automatic UCS alignment with planar surfaces on and off
F7	GRID DISPLAY	Turns on/off the grid display
F8	ORTHO	The cursor can only move either horizontal or vertical direction
F9	GRID SNAP	Restricts cursor movement to specified grid intervals
F10	POLAR TRACK	Helps cursor movement to specified angles
F11	OBJECT SNAP TRACK	Tracks the cursor horizontally and vertically from object snap locations.
F12	DYNAMIC INPUT	Measures the distances and angles between the cursor

How to assign keyboard function keys in AutoCAD?

To assign or customize keyboard function keys in AutoCAD, you can use the CUI (Customize User Interface) editor. Here’s how to do it step by step:

1. Open the CUI Editor

• Type CUI in the Command Line and press Enter.
• The Customize User Interface editor will open.

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2. Locate Keyboard Shortcuts

• In the CUI Editor window, look for the Customization section on the left pane.
• Expand Keyboard Shortcuts and then expand Shortcut Keys.

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3. Assign a Function Key

• In the Shortcut Keys section, you’ll see existing keyboard assignments.
• To add a new one:
  1. Select a command from the Command List on the right pane. You can search for commands by name (e.g., “Copy,” “Line,” “Save”).
  2. Drag the command into the Shortcut Keys section.

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4. Set the Function Key

• Once the command is added to the Shortcut Keys, click on it.
• In the Properties pane below, look for the Key(s) field.
• Click inside the Key(s) field, then press the function key (e.g., F1, F2, etc.) or key combination (e.g., Ctrl+F3) you want to assign.

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5. Save Your Changes

• After assigning the desired function key, click Apply or OK to save your changes and exit the CUI editor.

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6. Test the Function Key

• Press the function key in AutoCAD to see if it triggers the assigned command.

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Tips

• Backup First: Before making changes, it’s a good idea to back up your existing AutoCAD settings. Use the Transfer tab in the CUI editor to save your current customization file.
• Avoid Conflicts: Be careful not to overwrite existing default function key assignments unless you’re sure. For example, F1 is typically assigned to open Help.

Also Read:

• Principle views in AutoCAD