Step-by-Step: How to Use the Dimension Command in AutoCAD

1. Activate the Dimension Command

Type DIM in the command line and press Enter.
Alternatively, click on the Dimension tool in the Annotation panel on the ribbon.

2. Select the Object to Dimension

After activating the Dimension command, click on the two points or objects you want to measure.
For a Linear Dimension, click two points along the edge you want to measure.
For an Angular Dimension, select two lines to measure the angle between them.

3. Place the Dimension Line

After selecting the objects to dimension, move your cursor to where you want the dimension to be placed. Left-click to place the dimension line.
The dimension will automatically display the measurement, and you can move the dimension line to your preferred location.

4. Adjust the Dimension Style (Optional)

You can adjust the appearance of your dimensions, including text size, arrow size, and more. This can be done by typing DIMSTYLE in the command line and pressing Enter.
In the Dimension Style Manager, you can modify settings to meet your drawing requirements.

5. Understanding Arrows and Ticks

Arrows are the most common symbol used in dimensions. They indicate where the dimension starts and ends. These arrows will appear automatically when you create a dimension. You can adjust their size through the dimension style settings.
Ticks are an alternative to arrows, often used in some drawings (e.g., architectural drawings). In older or simpler versions of AutoCAD, you may need to draw ticks manually if they are not automatically placed by the software. Ticks are smaller symbols placed at the ends of the dimension line. You can switch between arrows and ticks in the dimension settings.

6. Using Dimscale for Correct Scaling

Dimscale is an important factor to ensure your dimensions are properly scaled for printing and for working with different drawing sizes.
Dimscale controls the size of dimension objects relative to the drawing. To set the correct Dimscale, type DIMSCALE in the command line, then enter a value that suits your drawing. For example, a value of 1 will create standard-sized dimensions. For larger drawings, you might need to use a larger Dimscale, like 10, to maintain appropriate size for readability.

7. Finish the Dimensioning Process

Once you’ve placed the dimension, press Enter or click to finalize the command.
If needed, use the Move command to adjust the position of the dimension or the text.

Practical Uses for the Dimension Command

Add Precise Measurements to Your Drawing
- Dimensions are key in every type of drawing, ensuring that measurements are clear and accurate.
Ensure Scale Accuracy for Printing
- Using Dimscale ensures that your dimensions appear correctly when you print your drawing at different scales.
Create Easy-to-Read Plans
- Whether you're dimensioning a floor plan or an engineering part, clear dimensions help others read and understand your design.

Quick Tips for Using the Dimension Command

Align Dimensions Properly: Make sure the dimension lines are placed where they won’t overlap with other objects or annotations.
Dimscale Tip: If dimensions look too big or small, adjust the Dimscale factor to get the right size for your drawing.
Manual Ticks: In some AutoCAD versions, if ticks don’t appear automatically, use the Polyline tool to draw them manually at the ends of the dimension lines.

Why Learn the Dimension Command?

Learning how to use the Dimension command is essential for creating professional, clear, and accurate drawings. It helps ensure your design is understood by others and ready for construction, manufacturing, or further development.

By mastering the Dimension command and understanding key elements like arrows, ticks, and Dimscale, you’ll improve your productivity and your ability to create detailed, well-measured designs.