Using EntitySnaps

Use EntitySnaps (ESnaps) to detect and snap to points on drawing entities, for example, end points, intersections, and center points. Snapping to a point provides an exact position for drawing and editing commands.

You specify ESnap modes to set snap options. For example, you might want to snap to intersections between entities. You can apply ESnap modes permanently or for a single operation.

ESnap modes are not universally applicable. For instance, you cannot define the end point of a Circle. Similarly, a line segment has no central point. However, a drawing entity might contain several points that match the ESnap mode criteria. A Line entity or an Arc, for instance, always has two end points. In those cases, the ESnap function identifies the nearest possible points. Always place the pointer as near as possible to the desired point.

The pointer snaps to a point depending on the:

Type of drawing entity
Selected EntitySnap mode
Specific point on the selected entity

The illustration below shows the relation between the point selected () and the point snapped ():

To use EntitySnaps when prompted for point selection:

Invoke a command or function that requires a point selection.
Shift + Right-click and select an ESnap from the context menu.
Right-click and click ESnap Overrides, then select an ESnap.
- or -

Type an EntitySnap mode abbreviation.
Move the pointer toward an entity where you want to use the ESnap.
The ESnap cue appears on the entity according to the ESnap mode you selected.

To turn on and off the EntitySnap:

Click ESnap on the status bar.

To set EntitySnaps permanently:

Click the ESnap Settings button on the status bar and select the EntitySnap modes you want to apply.
The selected modes are permanently activated. You can suspend EntitySnaps by disabling the ESnap button on the status bar.

To apply the EntitySnap function 'end', for example:

: LINE
Specify start point» <click in graphics area>
Specify next point» end
of: <point to drawing entity>
Specify next point»

Access

Command: ESnap

Status Bar: ESnap