AutoCAD

How to Set Default Toolbar in AutoCAD?

Restoring Default Toolbar Settings in AutoCAD

Understanding how to restore the default toolbar in AutoCAD is essential for a smoother and more efficient workflow. Whether you’ve customized your toolbars but want to revert to the original settings or you’re experiencing layout issues, the following procedures will guide you through resetting your AutoCAD toolbar to its default state.

Step 1: Utilizing the Quick Access Toolbar

  1. Access the AutoCAD Workspace:
    Launch AutoCAD and open any drawing or create a new one.

  2. Right-click on the Ribbon:
    Navigate to any blank area in the Ribbon at the top of the window. Right-click to bring up a context menu.

  3. Select ‘Show Quick Access Toolbar’:
    Within the context menu, locate the option labeled “Show Quick Access Toolbar.” Click on this to restore the toolbar to its original placement, situated just above or below the Ribbon.

Step 2: Resetting the Application Options

  1. Open AutoCAD Preferences:
    Click on the AutoCAD logo or type the command PREFERENCES in the command line and press Enter.

  2. Navigate to the Application Tab:
    Once the Preferences dialog appears, click on the ‘Application’ tab to access settings related to the overall application.

  3. Reset Application Options:
    Look for the button labeled “Reset Application Options.” Click on this to begin the process of restoring the toolbar and other settings.

  4. Confirm Reset:
    A prompt will appear asking for confirmation to reset. Ensure that you confirm this action, as it will revert your settings to the defaults, affecting the toolbar as well.

Step 3: Restoring the Ribbon to Its Default State

  1. Right-click on the Ribbon Area:
    Similar to the previous method, right-click anywhere inside the Ribbon.

  2. Select ‘Restore Default Ribbon’:
    From the menu that opens, select the option that says “Restore Default Ribbon.” This action will restore the Ribbon layout to its original settings, including all visible tabs and tool buttons.

Step 4: Resetting AutoCAD to Default Settings

  1. Access the Start Menu:
    Click on the Windows icon on your taskbar, then select the down arrow to view all applications.

  2. Find AutoCAD 2025:
    Navigate to the AutoCAD section and look for the “Reset Settings to Default” option within the AutoCAD folder.

  3. Initiate the Reset:
    Click on “Reset Settings to Default.” You may be prompted to create a backup of your current settings. It is advisable to back these up before proceeding.

  4. Complete the Reset:
    Confirm any prompts asking if you want to proceed with the reset. This will restore all toolbar settings back to default.

Step 5: Show or Hide the Ribbon

  1. Use Command Line for Ribbon Control:
    If the Ribbon has been hidden and you want to show it again, type the command RIBBON in the command line and press Enter.

  2. Hide the Ribbon if Necessary:
    If you need to hide it again, type RIBBONCLOSE and press Enter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What if my toolbars are still not visible after following the reset steps?
Sometimes, a program restart may be necessary for all changes to take effect. If the toolbars do not appear, save your work and restart AutoCAD.

2. Can I customize my toolbar settings after I reset them?
Yes, after restoring to defaults, you can customize the toolbars according to your preferences once again through the Customize User Interface (CUI) feature within AutoCAD.

3. How do I back up my settings before resetting AutoCAD?
To back up your settings before a reset, go to the AutoCAD options menu, find the Settings tab, and look for an option to export your current settings. Save the exported file to your desired location for future restoration.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.