2.3Text, text styles & fields
A plan without text remains silent: legends, notes, callouts, designations are essential. AutoCAD provides single-line text (TEXT — for a short label) and multiline text (MTEXT/MT — for paragraphs, with rich formatting). The choice depends on the need, but multiline text is the most versatile.
For consistency, you define reusable text styles (font, height, factor…) — like word processor styles. Finally, fields insert dynamic text that updates on its own: date, file name, scale, an object's area, sheet number… A well-made title block relies heavily on fields, which avoids copy/paste errors.
Section vocabulary
- Single-line text (TEXT)
- Text on a single line, a simple object. Ideal for short labels.
- Multiline text (MTEXT / MT)
- Text paragraph with rich formatting (bold, lists, columns). The most versatile.
- Text style
- Reusable setting defining the font, height and effects of text, for consistency.
- Field
- Dynamic text linked to a data (date, file name, scale, area…) that updates automatically.
- Text height
- Size of the text; to be defined in line with the print scale (annotation).
What is a field in a text used for?
In practice — Annotating with text and fields
- Create a text style (font, height) and set it as current.
- Add a label with single-line Text, then a notes block with Multiline Text (MT).
- Insert a field: for example the date or the file name, which will update automatically.
- Insert an « area » field linked to a closed polyline: notice that it recomputes if the shape changes.
Key points to remember
- Single-line text (labels) vs multiline text (paragraphs, formatting).
- Text styles ensure consistency (font, height).
- Fields insert dynamic text (date, file, scale, area).
- A good title block relies on fields to avoid copy/paste errors.
Frequently asked questions
Which text height should I choose?
It depends on the print scale: text must be legible on the paper plan (often 2.5 to 3.5 mm printed, depending on the standard). In model space, the real height is therefore calculated according to the viewport scale (3 mm text at 1:100 scale is drawn at 300 mm). Annotative objects (annotation scale) greatly simplify this management — a topic related to layout (level 3).
Are fields really useful?
Yes, especially for title blocks and changing data: plot date, file name, scale, sheet number and title, areas. A field updates automatically, avoiding errors and forgotten manual updates. A « smart » title block based on fields and attributes is a mark of professionalism and saves precious time on multi-sheet projects.