AutoCAD

How To Show Properties In AutoCAD?

To effectively display object properties in AutoCAD, a series of steps must be followed, whether you want to access properties of current objects, adjust text properties, or even manage layers. Below are detailed instructions to guide you through displaying properties efficiently in AutoCAD 2025.

Accessing Object Properties

  1. Select Objects: Begin by clicking on the object or objects for which you wish to view the properties. This can include lines, circles, text, or any other drawn entity.

  2. Open the Properties Palette: You can open the Properties palette in different ways:

    • Right-Click Method: After selecting your object, right-click and choose "Properties" from the context menu.
    • Shortcut Command: Type PROPERTIES in the command line, then press Enter. The Properties palette will appear.
  3. Review the Properties: The Properties palette will display various properties related to your selection. If multiple objects are selected, the palette shows only the properties that are common to all selections.

Viewing Drawing Properties

  1. Access Drawing Properties: Click on the Application button (often represented as the AutoCAD logo in the top left corner).

  2. Navigate to Drawing Utilities: From the drop-down menu, select “Drawing Utilities” and then click on “Drawing Properties”.

  3. Explore the Dialog Box: The Drawing Properties dialog box will appear. Utilize the tabs available (such as Summary and Custom) to review and modify the drawing information as needed.

Displaying Text Properties

  1. Select Text: Click to select either a single-line text (TEXT) or multi-line text (MTEXT) object.

  2. Open Edit Options: For MTEXT, double-click on the text. Once inside the editing mode, navigate to the ribbon at the top.

  3. Adjust Settings: Click on "More" and choose "Editor Settings." Activate the option that indicates "Show Toolbar." This will allow you to utilize additional formatting features for your text properties.

Accessing Layer Properties

  1. Use the Layer Properties Command: To view and manage layer properties, you can either click on the Layer Properties icon on the toolbar or type LAYER into the command line.

  2. Layer Properties Manager: A dialog box will open. Here, you can create new layers, modify existing layers, and adjust properties such as color, linetype, and visibility settings efficiently.

Customizing Properties Display Settings

  1. Workspace Customization: If you prefer to customize what properties are shown, initiate the CUI (Customize User Interface) command by typing CUI into the command line.

  2. Select Your Workspace: Once the Customize dialog opens, locate and select your current workspace from the available list.

  3. Modifying Palettes: Look for the Palettes section on the right side, expand it and select “Properties.” Adjust the settings according to your preference—making sure to set show to Yes and tweaking docking options as required.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I customize the properties palette further?
To customize the Properties palette, open the CUI dialog and modify your workspace settings under the Palettes section. You can change which toolbars and palettes appear based on your workflow needs.

What if the Properties palette doesn’t appear?
If the Properties palette does not show up after attempting to access it, ensure that it hasn’t been docked out of view. You can reset your workspace or check under the View tab to reactivate it.

Can I view properties for multiple objects at once?
Yes, you can select multiple objects before opening the Properties palette. However, only the common properties shared among those selections will be displayed in the palette.

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.