AutoCAD Tutorial 2021: Paper Space - Layout - Viewport - Scale - Print - PDF

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to effectively use Paper Space in AutoCAD 2021. You will learn how to transition from Model Space to Paper Space, set up viewports, create layouts, scale your drawings, and print them as PDFs. Understanding these concepts is essential for creating professional-quality technical drawings.

Step 1: Transition from Model Space to Paper Space

• Open your AutoCAD project.
• Switch from Model Space to Paper Space by clicking on the "Layout" tab at the bottom of the screen.
• You will notice a different area where you can set up your drawing for printing.

Step 2: Set Up Layouts

• In Paper Space, create a new layout if needed:
  • Right-click on an existing layout tab and select "New Layout."
• Rename your layout to something descriptive (e.g., “Site Plan”).
• Adjust the paper size by right-clicking on the layout tab, selecting "Page Setup Manager," and then editing the settings.
  • Choose the proper paper size (e.g., A4, A3) based on your requirements.

Step 3: Create and Manage Viewports

• To add a viewport, type MV (for "Make Viewport") in the command line.
• Click and drag to create a rectangle representing the area of Model Space that you want to display.
• To adjust the viewport:
  • Double-click inside the viewport to activate it.
  • Use zoom commands such as Z followed by E for "Zoom Extents" to fit your drawing.

Step 4: Scale Your Viewports

• To set the scale of your viewport:
  • Click on the edge of the viewport to select it.
  • In the Properties panel, find the “Standard Scale” dropdown.
  • Choose the desired scale (e.g., 1:100, 1:50).
• Ensure the scale is appropriate for the paper size and the level of detail required.

Step 5: Print Your Drawing as a PDF

• Go to the "Output" tab on the ribbon.
• Click on "Plot" to open the Plot dialog.
• Set the printer/plotter to "DWG To PDF."
• Under "Paper Size," select the size you set in your layout.
• Choose the appropriate settings for your drawing:
  • Ensure "Plot Area" is set to "Layout."
  • Adjust the plot scale if necessary.
• Click "Preview" to see how your drawing will look when printed.
• If everything looks good, click "OK" to save the PDF.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can successfully navigate Paper Space in AutoCAD 2021, set up layouts, manage viewports, scale your drawings, and print them as PDFs. These skills are vital for any architectural or engineering project. For further learning, consider exploring additional AutoCAD tutorials or quizzes on platforms like YouLearnity.