AutoCAD

How to Send Back in AutoCAD?

Understanding Xref in AutoCAD

When working with drawings in AutoCAD, you may need to rearrange the order of objects to visually clarify the elements in your layout. One common task is sending an xref (external reference) object to the back of other elements. An xref allows you to attach external files to your drawing, making it easier to manage large projects. Keeping certain elements behind others can enhance your project’s readability.

Step-by-Step Guide to Sending an Xref to the Back

Follow these instructions to send an xref to the back in AutoCAD 2025:

Step 1: Access the Command

Start by using the Quick Select (QSELECT) command, which allows for efficient selection of objects based on specific criteria. Activate this command by typing QSELECT into the command line and pressing Enter.

Step 2: Choose the Object Type

In the dialog box that appears, specify the object type you want to modify. If you’re working with an xref, select it from the options provided or choose a specific layer that contains your xref.

Step 3: Initiate the Draw Order Command

Once you have selected the xref, right-click to bring up the contextual menu. From here, look for the "Draw Order" option.

Step 4: Select the Desired Option

In the Draw Order submenu, you will see several options. Choose “Send to Back” to place the selected xref behind all other objects. If you just want to move it back one layer, you can select “Send Backward” instead.

Step 5: Verify the Changes

Take a moment to inspect your drawing and ensure the xref has been successfully sent to the back. You may need to adjust other elements if they overlap the xref.

Alternative Methods to Adjust Object Order

Besides using the QSELECT command, there are other ways you can manage the draw order of objects:

Using the Modify Panel

  1. Navigate to the Home tab on the ribbon menu.
  2. Locate the Modify panel, and find the "Bring to Front" dropdown.
  3. Here you can access the same options as before, allowing you to either bring objects forward or send them backward effortlessly.

Direct Keyboard Commands

Another way to manage the draw order is through direct commands:

  • Use the command DRAWORDER, which provides options to bring objects to the front or send them to the back based on your selected object.

Utilizing Layers for Better Management

Properly using layers in AutoCAD can also aid in managing the visibility and order of objects. By placing xrefs on separate layers, you can easily control their visibility and interaction with other drawing elements.

FAQ

Can I send multiple xrefs to the back at once?

Yes, you can select multiple xrefs using the QSELECT command and then apply the “Send to Back” action to all selected objects simultaneously.

What should I do if the xref does not appear after sending it to the back?

If the xref does not show up after adjustment, check the drawing’s layers and ensure the layer containing the xref is turned on and not frozen.

Is there a visual indicator for the order of objects?

AutoCAD does not provide a direct visual indicator for object order, but you can view and adjust the layer structure on the Layer Properties Manager to help organize your elements logically.

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.