How to Change the Shortcut Keys in Vectorworks?

Understanding Shortcut Keys in Vectorworks

Shortcut keys in Vectorworks allow users to perform actions efficiently, speeding up the overall workflow. Adjusting these keys helps tailor the software to individual preferences and can enhance productivity. The following sections provide detailed guidance on how to change shortcut keys within Vectorworks.

Accessing Shortcut Key Preferences

1. Open Vectorworks: Launch the Vectorworks application on your computer.
2. Navigate to the Preferences Menu: Click on the "Edit" menu located in the top menu bar.
3. Select "Preferences": From the dropdown list, click on "Preferences" to open the Preferences dialog box.
4. Locate "Tool Sets": Within the Preferences dialog, select the "Tool Sets" tab, which allows you to manage various shortcuts and tools.

Modifying Shortcut Keys

1. Open the Shortcut Key Manager: In the Preferences dialog, look for the “Keyboard Shortcuts” or “Shortcut Key Manager” option, depending on your version of Vectorworks.
2. View Existing Shortcuts: A list of current shortcut keys will be displayed. This allows for easy reference when configuring new keys.
3. Identify the Command: Scroll through the list and find the command for which you want to change the shortcut.
4. Select the Command: Click on the command to highlight it.
5. Set New Shortcut:
   • Click on the "Edit" button or similar option that allows you to change the shortcut.
   • Press the new key combination you wish to assign. For example, if you prefer to use the combination Ctrl + Shift + N for a command, press those keys simultaneously.
6. Check for Conflicts: If the new combination conflicts with existing shortcuts, a warning may appear. You can choose to overwrite the existing shortcut or select a different combination.

Saving Changes

1. Confirm the Changes: After assigning the new shortcut key, ensure you click on an "OK" or "Save" button to apply the changes.
2. Close Preferences: Exit the Preferences dialog box to return to your design environment.

Resetting to Default Shortcuts

1. Access Keyboard Shortcuts Again: Return to the Shortcut Key Manager as described previously.
2. Select Reset Button: Look for a button labeled "Reset to Default" or similar, which will restore all shortcuts to Vectorworks’ original settings.
3. Confirm the Reset: A prompt may ask for confirmation. Accept it to finish restoring default shortcuts.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I create custom shortcuts for specific tools in Vectorworks?
Yes, you can create custom shortcuts for any tool available within Vectorworks. Simply follow the steps above to assign a new key combination to the desired tool.

2. What should I do if my custom shortcut isn’t working?
If your custom shortcut isn’t functioning, check to ensure that it doesn’t conflict with existing shortcuts. You might also want to verify if the command is active and available in your current workspace.

3. Is it possible to export and import shortcut key settings?
Yes, Vectorworks allows you to export your custom keyboard shortcut settings for backup or use in another installation. Check the preferences section for "Export" or "Import" options pertaining to keyboard shortcuts.