AutoCAD for Mac offers a powerful and streamlined design environment, but one of its most underutilized features is the Command Line. Far more than a relic of the DOS era, the Command Line in AutoCAD for Mac is a dynamic tool that can dramatically increase your productivity, precision, and control over your drawings. Whether you’re a seasoned AutoCAD veteran or a Mac user new to CAD, mastering the Command Line will transform the way you work.
What Is the Command Line in AutoCAD for Mac?
The Command Line is a text-based interface located at the bottom of the AutoCAD window that displays prompts, options, and feedback from the software while allowing you to input commands, coordinates, and values directly. Unlike the Windows version of AutoCAD—which features a dockable, resizable command window—AutoCAD for Mac integrates the Command Line as a compact, always-visible bar at the bottom of the screen. Despite its minimalist appearance, it’s packed with functionality.
Key Features of the AutoCAD Mac Command Line:
- Real-time command entry: Type any command instead of hunting through menus or toolbars.
- Dynamic input integration: Works in tandem with Dynamic Input (the tooltips near your cursor) for seamless data entry.
- Command history: Access previously used commands with the up/down arrow keys.
- Autocomplete and suggestions: As you type, AutoCAD suggests matching commands and options.
- Direct coordinate input: Enter precise X,Y,Z coordinates or relative values without relying solely on the mouse.
Why Use the Command Line?
While the graphical interface of AutoCAD for Mac is intuitive, the Command Line offers several distinct advantages:
- Speed: Typing “L” for Line or “C” for Circle is often faster than navigating ribbons or palettes.
- Precision: Enter exact distances, angles, and coordinates without snapping or measuring.
- Repeatability: Reuse commands and values effortlessly using the command history.
- Advanced control: Access command options that may not be visible in dialog boxes or toolbars.
- Scripting foundation: Learning command syntax prepares you for writing scripts and using LISP routines.
Getting Started: Enabling and Navigating the Command Line
By default, the Command Line is visible in AutoCAD for Mac. If it’s hidden:
- Go to View > Palettes > Command Line.
- Alternatively, press Cmd + 9 to toggle it on or off.
Once visible, you’ll notice two areas:
- The input field (where you type commands)
- The output/history area (which shows prompts and previous entries)
Basic Navigation Tips:
- Press Enter or Spacebar to execute a command.
- Use the Up Arrow (↑) and Down Arrow (↓) keys to cycle through command history.
- Press Esc to cancel the current command.
- Type ? during a command to see available options.
Essential Command Line Techniques
1. Entering Commands Efficiently
Most commands have short aliases. Memorizing these can save significant time:
- L = LINE
- C = CIRCLE
- CO = COPY
- M = MOVE
- RO = ROTATE
- TR = TRIM
- EX = EXTEND
To see a full list of aliases, type ALIASEDIT in the Command Line and press Enter. This opens the alias editor where you can view or customize shortcuts.
2. Using Coordinates
The Command Line excels at precise point entry:
- Absolute coordinates:
10,20(X=10, Y=20) - Relative coordinates:
@10,20(10 units right, 20 units up from last point) - Polar coordinates:
@15<45(15 units at a 45° angle from last point)
Example: To draw a line from (0,0) to a point 30 units away at 60°, type:
LINE
0,0
@30<60
3. Accessing Command Options
Many commands offer sub-options that only appear in the Command Line. For example, when using the CIRCLE command:
CIRCLE
Specify center point for circle or [3P/2P/Ttr (tan tan radius)]:
Typing 3P lets you define a circle by three points—something not always obvious from the toolbar.
4. Using System Variables
System variables control AutoCAD’s behavior. You can view or change them via the Command Line:
- Type OSMODE to see or set object snap modes.
- Type LIMCHECK to toggle drawing limits.
- Type FILEDIA to control whether dialog boxes appear (set to 0 for command-line-only file operations).
To list all system variables, type SETVAR and press Enter, then choose “?” when prompted.
5. Dynamic Input vs. Command Line
AutoCAD for Mac supports Dynamic Input (enabled by default), which shows prompts near your cursor. While convenient, it can sometimes obscure the full range of options. If you prefer working exclusively in the Command Line:
- Toggle Dynamic Input off with Cmd + F12.
- Or keep it on and use the Tab key to cycle between input fields.
Pro Tips for Power Users
Create Custom Aliases
Don’t like the default shortcuts? Create your own:
- Type ALIASEDIT.
- Click Add.
- Enter your alias (e.g., “PLINE” as “PL”) and the full command.
- Save and restart AutoCAD to apply changes.
Use the Command Line for Scripting
Once comfortable with command syntax, you can write simple scripts (.scr files) that automate repetitive tasks. For example, a script to set up layers might include:
LAYER
MAKE
WALLS
COLOR
1
LAYER
MAKE
DOORS
COLOR
3
Run scripts by typing SCRIPT in the Command Line and selecting your .scr file.
Combine with Keyboard Shortcuts
Pair Command Line input with macOS shortcuts:
- Cmd + Z: Undo (works even mid-command)
- Cmd + Shift + Z: Redo
- Cmd + C / Cmd + V: Copy/paste values from external apps into the Command Line
Leverage the “Recent Commands” List
Right-click (or Ctrl+click) in the Command Line to access a list of recently used commands—ideal for quick access without typing.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Command not recognized? Check spelling and ensure you’re not in the middle of another command. Press Esc to cancel and retry.
- Command Line too small? While you can’t resize it like in Windows, you can maximize the AutoCAD window or use full-screen mode (Ctrl + Cmd + F) for more vertical space.
- Accidental dialog boxes? Set FILEDIA to 0 to force all file operations through the Command Line.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I make the Command Line stay visible all the time in AutoCAD for Mac?
The Command Line is visible by default and remains fixed at the bottom of the drawing window in AutoCAD for Mac. If it disappears, press Cmd + 9 or go to View > Palettes > Command Line to restore it. Unlike the Windows version, it cannot be docked or floated, but it will always appear when a command requires input.
Can I increase the font size in the Command Line on AutoCAD for Mac?
Yes. Go to AutoCAD > Preferences > Display, then under the Window Elements section, adjust the Command Line Font Size using the slider or input field. This change applies immediately and improves readability, especially on high-resolution Mac displays.
Why doesn’t the Command Line show full command history like in AutoCAD for Windows?
AutoCAD for Mac uses a streamlined Command Line interface that shows only recent prompts and inputs. While it doesn’t display a scrollable multi-line history like the Windows version, you can still access previous commands using the Up Arrow (↑) key. For extended history, consider using the Command History feature via third-party plugins or by enabling logging (see OPTIONS > System > General Options > Request Log File).
Is it possible to copy and paste text directly into the Command Line?
Yes. You can copy (Cmd + C) text from any application (like a text editor or spreadsheet) and paste (Cmd + V) it directly into the Command Line. This is especially useful for entering long coordinate lists, layer names, or scripted command sequences.
What should I do if I accidentally type a wrong command and AutoCAD freezes or becomes unresponsive?
AutoCAD rarely “freezes” due to a mistyped command—it usually just returns an “Unknown command” error. To recover:
- Press Esc to cancel any active command.
- If the interface seems stuck, try pressing Enter a few times to clear the input buffer.
- If unresponsive, force-quit (Cmd + Option + Esc) and relaunch. Always save your work frequently to avoid data loss.
Does the Command Line support command completion or predictive typing?
Yes. As you begin typing a command (e.g., “CIR”), AutoCAD for Mac displays a dropdown list of matching commands and aliases. Use the arrow keys to select from the suggestions and press Enter to confirm. This autocomplete feature helps reduce typos and speeds up command entry.
Can I use the Command Line to run LISP routines in AutoCAD for Mac?
Yes, but with limitations. AutoCAD for Mac supports AutoLISP, and you can load and run .lsp files via the Command Line using the APPLOAD or (load “filename”) command. However, not all Windows LISP routines are fully compatible due to platform differences—always test routines in your Mac environment first.
Conclusion
The Command Line in AutoCAD for Mac is not just a fallback—it’s a precision instrument for efficient, accurate, and powerful drafting. By integrating command-line techniques into your daily workflow, you’ll reduce reliance on the mouse, minimize errors, and unlock advanced functionality that graphical interfaces often hide.
Start small: replace one toolbar click with a typed command today. Gradually incorporate coordinate input, explore command options, and customize aliases. Before long, you’ll wonder how you ever designed without it.
Remember: In AutoCAD, speed and accuracy aren’t just about tools—they’re about how you communicate with them. The Command Line is your direct line to the engine of design. Master it, and you master AutoCAD itself.
