AutoCAD 2013: Workspaces

by John Flanagan

When you start AutoCAD, you see the components of the AutoCAD window arranged in a certain way. This arrangement can change depending on the workspace you choose.

AutoCAD offers you the choice of three standard workspaces:

• 2D Drafting and Annotation
• 3D Modeling
• AutoCAD Classic

In addition, you can create custom workspaces.

What is a Workspace?

You can easily arrange the AutoCAD window in any way you like. Once you’ve arranged the window, you can save your arrangement as a named workspace.

You can also change workspaces on the fly using the Workspaces Switching tool in the status bar. This tool is typically located in the lower right corner of the AutoCAD window.

The Workspace named 2D Drafting & Annotation provides several Ribbon panels and tabs containing common features needed for 2D drawings. The Workspace named 3D Modeling provides Ribbon-based 3D-related features. Both of these are good starting points. You can then refine the Ribbon a bit more, then save it as another Workspace.

How to Create a Workspace

1.. To save your current workspace by name, click the Workspace Switching icon on the     right half of the status bar, then click Save Current As.

2.. Enter a name for the current workspace, then click Save.

How to Update Your Workspace

1.. Make the necessary changes and position edits to your Ribbon.

2.. On the Status bar, click Workspace Switching, then click Save Current As.

3.. In the drop-down list, choose the name of the workspace for the changes, then click Save.

4.. When you see the notice regarding replacing the workspace that already exists, click Replace.