How to Create Tags in SketchUp 2020?

Understanding Tags in SketchUp 2020

Tags, previously known as layers, are crucial for organizing your models in SketchUp 2020. They allow users to manage the visibility of various elements within a project, enhancing workflow and efficiency when working on complex designs. Here’s a detailed guide on how to create and utilize these tags effectively.

Accessing the Tags Panel

To begin, ensure that the Tags panel is visible in your workspace. If the panel isn’t displayed, follow these steps:

1. Navigate to the Menu Bar: Click on the ‘Window’ tab at the top of the screen.
2. Select Default Tray: Hover over the ‘Default Tray’ option.
3. Enable Tags: Ensure there is a check next to ‘Tags.’ If not, click it to enable the view.

Once visible, the Tags panel provides a straightforward interface for managing your tags.

Creating a Tag

1. Open the Tags Panel: Make sure the Tags panel is open.
2. Add a New Tag: Click on the "+" icon (Add Tag) at the top of the panel.
3. Name Your Tag: A dialog box will appear; here, you can enter a name for the new tag. This name should reflect the objects you intend to categorize under this tag for easy identification.
4. Confirm the Creation: Press ‘Enter’ to create the tag. It will now appear in your Tags list.

Organizing Tags in Folders

To maintain order among multiple tags, you can create folders:

1. Create a New Folder: Click on the “Add Folder” icon in the Tags panel.
2. Name Your Folder: When prompted, give your folder a relevant name. If left unnamed, SketchUp will automatically assign a numeric name.
3. Drag Tags into the Folder: From your list of tags, select one or more tags and drag them into the folder you created. This method helps keep similar elements together for easier access.

Assigning Tags to Entities

After creating tags, the next step is to assign them to specific objects within your model:

1. Select an Object: Use the Select Tool to click on the object you want to tag.
2. Open the Entity Info Panel: If it’s not open, navigate to ‘Window’ and select ‘Entity Info.’
3. Assign a Tag: In the Entity Info panel, locate the section labeled "Tags." Click the dropdown and choose the tag you created earlier. The object will now be associated with that tag.

Hiding Tagged Objects

One of the significant benefits of using tags is the ability to hide tagged objects quickly:

1. Open the Tags Panel: Ensure this panel is active.
2. Locate the Tag: Find the tag associated with the objects you wish to hide.
3. Hide the Tag: Click the eye icon next to the tag name. All objects assigned to that tag will be hidden from view.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are tags in SketchUp 2020 the same as layers in other programs?
Yes, tags serve a similar purpose to layers in other software. They allow users to manage visibility and organization of model elements but have unique functionalities within SketchUp.

2. Can I create nested folders for my tags in SketchUp?
As of now, SketchUp allows the creation of folders for tags, but nested folders within those folders are not supported.

3. Is there a limit to how many tags I can create in SketchUp 2020?
There is no explicit limit to the number of tags you can create. However, managing an excessive number of tags might complicate organization and usability within your project.