Draftsight

How to Select Multiple Lines in DraftSight?

Understanding Selection Options in Draftsight

Selecting multiple lines or objects in Draftsight is essential for efficient workflow and design management. By adjusting your settings and utilizing specific key commands, you can easily select multiple items without unnecessary hassle.

Configuring Multiple Object Selection

Before you begin your selection, it’s crucial to set up your Draftsight environment properly.

  1. Access the Options Menu: Navigate to the top menu and click on ‘File’, followed by ‘Options’.

  2. Locate the Selection Settings: Within the options dialogue, look for the section dedicated to object selection. You should find an option labeled ‘Multiple Objects Selection’.

  3. Enable the Feature: Check the box next to this option to activate it. This allows you to select multiple items simply by clicking on them, without having to press the Shift key.

Selecting Lines and Objects

Once the settings are configured, you can easily select multiple lines in Draftsight by following these steps:

  1. Initial Selection: Click on the first line or object you wish to select. Ensure that you are in a mode where object selection is possible (like in a drawing or layout).

  2. Select Additional Lines: For selecting more lines, simply click on them one by one. Since you have enabled the multiple object selection option, there is no need to hold the Shift key.

  3. Deselecting Items: If you mistakenly select an object, click on it again to deselect it. This feature allows you to fine-tune your selection without starting over.

Utilizing Keyboard Shortcuts

For users who prefer keyboard commands, Draftsight supports several options:

  1. Using the Shift Key: If you did not enable the multiple object selection option, you can still select multiple lines by clicking the first line, holding down the Shift key, and then clicking on additional lines.

  2. Remove Unwanted Selection: Should you wish to remove a selection, hold the Control (Ctrl) key while clicking on the item you want to deselect.

Selecting Objects with a Window or Crossing Selection

Draftsight also provides tools for selecting multiple lines within a specified area:

  1. Window Selection: Click and drag your mouse to create a selection window. This will select all objects that fall inside the box you’ve drawn.

  2. Crossing Selection: If you want to select items that are partially within your selection area, hold the Shift key and drag a crossing window over the desired objects.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if I can’t select multiple objects in Draftsight?
Make sure that the multiple object selection option is enabled in the settings. Navigate to ‘File’ > ‘Options’ and check the relevant box under the selection settings.

2. Can I select objects across different layers?
Yes, you can select objects across different layers as long as they are visible. All selectable items will respond to your selection commands unless they are locked or hidden.

3. Is there a way to select all objects in a drawing?
Yes, you can use the command Select All or type Ctrl + A to select all visible objects in your drawing space effectively.

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.