How to Use the Pan Command in AutoCAD: A Beginner’s Guide

The Pan command in AutoCAD allows you to move around your drawing without changing its size or scale. Think of it as sliding a piece of paper around on your desk to view different parts. It’s an essential tool for navigating large or detailed drawings. Let’s break it down into simple steps.

What Does the Pan Command Do?

The Pan command moves your view of the drawing while keeping the objects and dimensions in place. It doesn’t modify your drawing—it just shifts your perspective.

Step-by-Step: How to Use the Pan Command

1. Activate the Pan Command

Type PAN in the command line and press Enter.
Or click the Pan tool in the Navigation bar.
For quick access, press and hold the mouse wheel (middle button).

2. Use the Pan Tool

After activating Pan, your cursor will change to a hand symbol.
Click and hold the left mouse button, then drag the cursor in the direction you want to move.
Release the button to stop panning.

3. Using the Mouse Wheel for Pan

Hold down the mouse wheel and move the mouse to pan dynamically. This method keeps you in control without needing to type commands.

4. Exit the Pan Command

Press Enter or the Esc key to exit the Pan command and return to your previous tool.

Practical Uses for the Pan Command

Exploring Large Drawings
- Quickly move across floor plans, mechanical layouts, or site maps without zooming in and out.
Focusing on Specific Areas
- Pan to a specific region when working on details like dimensions, annotations, or edits.
Combining with Zoom
- Use Pan with the Zoom command to navigate effectively. For instance, zoom in on a small detail, then pan to adjacent areas.

Quick Tips for Using Pan

Real-Time Movement: The mouse wheel is the easiest and fastest way to pan in real time.
Combine with Zoom Extents: If you get lost in your drawing, use Zoom Extents (Z > E) to reset your view, then pan to where you need.
Shortcut Key: Press and hold the spacebar to temporarily switch to the Pan tool.

Why Use the Pan Command?

The Pan command simplifies navigation, especially when working on large-scale or intricate designs. It saves time and keeps your workflow smooth by letting you shift your view effortlessly.

Once you’ve mastered the Pan command, you’ll be able to explore your drawings like a pro and focus on getting the job done.