AutoCAD Tip – Efficient Layer Management using Layer States

by Dennis Collin

I was having a recent discussion with a user on how to set the same layer conditions when working on a drawing, for example, showing just the building elements without displaying any layers relating to Furniture or Text etc... or displaying items from different disciplines such as HVAC or Electrical. Whilst these layers can be set manually, it can be a somewhat time consuming and laborious process. Fortunately, there is a way to save desired layer conditions in order they can be recalled later.

Fig 1. Many users find working with layers can be a time-consuming process!

This function is called Layer states. A layer state is a collection of layer presets saved to a named style which can be applied at any time from the Layer Manager.

Fig 2. To efficiently work with layers users should consider using layer states.

To create a new layer state or manage existing layer states, select the drop-down on the ribbons’ Layer Panel. Layer States can record all the layer conditions that exist at the time they are created, including Viewport Over-rides, provided they are defined from the paper layout.

Fig 3. Layer states can be edited and updated at any time.

Fig 4. Layer states can be used to quickly ‘flip’ a drawing from colour to monochrome and back again!

Not only can Layer States be used to control layer visibility, but they can also be used to quickly apply colour overrides to output sheets i.e. grey out building shapes for MEP CAD plans or highlight fire equipment in red whilst plotting other elements as black for easy identification.

Fig 4. Accessing Layer states from the Ribbon Menu.

The Restore option within the layer state manager or drop-down menu from the ribbon menu can be used to apply a Layer State. Layer States can also be exported and then imported to other drawings if required.

Using Layer states, layer filters, managing Xref links and block libraries are just one of the many topics covered on our bespoke and Intermediate AutoCAD training courses. For more information, agendas and to speak to one of the team visit https://training.cadline.co.uk/ where someone will be able to help.