Command and Data Entry

To create objects in Vectorworks you must first select the drawing tool  you wish to use and then input data for the computer to draw the object.

Tools can be selected in two ways:

1. By clicking on their icon:

All the basic drawing tools (line, arc, rectangle, ellipse, etc.) are represented by icons on the tool palettes. Two-dimensional tools are contained within the Basic palette, three-dimensional tools are contained within the Tool Sets palette. To activate a tool simply click on its icon.

2. By using a keyboard shortcut:

All of the tools on the Basic palette have corresponding keyboard shortcuts. Pressing x returns to the 2D Selection tool. A full list of keyboard shortcuts is contained below.




Data (dimensions etc.) is entered into Vectorworks after the drawing tool has been selected. It can be entered in a number of ways.

1. By drawing with the mouse:

When drawing a line, for example, the mouse can be used to specify the start and end point. Select the line tool, click once with the mouse to specify the starting point of the line and click again to specify the end point.

2. By using the  Data display bar:

When drawing an object you can use the data display bar to type in exact dimensions and co-ordinates. To use the data display bar to draw a line, first pick the line tool. Next hit the tab key on the keyboard to access the first field in the blue display bar. To move to the next field press tab again, or enter data and press return.

3. By double clicking on a tool icon:

If you double-click on a tool icon a dialogue box will appear allowing the exact location and dimensions of an object to be specified.


Accurately Re-Sizing objects

1. Manually using the Mouse:

With the 'Angled, Double Headed Arrow' Selection cursor you can resize an object by dragging any of its corner or mid points around. Note that with the shift key held down the object will resize and stay in proportion.

2.By using the Object Information palette:

Discussed on separate notes below.