Work with Layers

Work with Layers

Use Layers to Manage Complexity

 

AutoCAD 2008 User's Guide > Create and Modify Objects > Control the Properties of Objects > Work with Layers > 

Overview of Layers

Concept

Quick Reference

Layers are used to group information in a drawing by function and to enforce linetype, color, and other standards.

Layers are the equivalent of the overlays used in paper-based drafting. Layers are the primary organizational tool used in drawing. You use layers to group information by function and to enforce linetype, color, and other standards.

By creating layers, you can associate similar types of objects by assigning them to the same layer. For example, you can put construction lines, text, dimensions, and title blocks on separate layers. You can then control the following:

• Whether objects on a layer are visible or dimmed in any viewports
• Whether and how objects are plotted
• What color is assigned to all objects on a layer
• What default linetype and lineweight are assigned to all objects on a layer
• Whether objects on a layer can be modified
• Whether objects display with different layer properties in individual layout viewports

Every drawing includes a layer named 0. Layer 0 cannot be deleted or renamed. It has two purposes:

• Ensure that every drawing includes at least one layer
• Provide a special layer that relates to controlling colors in blocks