How to Array in AutoCAD: Step-by-Step Guide

In AutoCAD, you create arrays using the ARRAY command, which lets you duplicate objects in rectangular, polar, or path patterns. You select the object, choose the array type, and specify the number of rows, columns, or items along a path to create the pattern.

Syntax

The ARRAY command in AutoCAD has three main types:

• Rectangular Array: Duplicates objects in rows and columns.
• Polar Array: Duplicates objects in a circular pattern around a center point.
• Path Array: Duplicates objects along a selected path or curve.

Each type requires you to specify parameters like number of items, spacing, or angle.

plaintext

ARRAY
Select objects
Choose array type (Rectangular/Polar/Path)
Specify parameters (rows, columns, angle, path)
Press Enter to create array

Example

This example creates a rectangular array of a selected object with 3 rows and 4 columns spaced 5 units apart.

plaintext

ARRAY
Select object
Choose Rectangular
Enter number of rows: 3
Enter number of columns: 4
Enter row spacing: 5
Enter column spacing: 5
Press Enter

Output

A grid of 12 objects arranged in 3 rows and 4 columns spaced 5 units apart each.

Common Pitfalls

• Forgetting to select the object before starting the ARRAY command causes errors.
• Confusing row spacing with column spacing can distort the pattern.
• Using too many items in a polar array can overlap objects.
• Path arrays require a valid path; selecting an invalid curve will fail.

plaintext

Wrong:
ARRAY
Choose Rectangular
Enter rows: 3
Enter columns: 4

Right:
ARRAY
Select object
Choose Rectangular
Enter rows: 3
Enter columns: 4

Quick Reference

Array Type	Description	Key Parameters
Rectangular	Duplicates objects in rows and columns	Rows, Columns, Row Spacing, Column Spacing
Polar	Duplicates objects in a circle around a center	Number of Items, Angle to Fill, Center Point
Path	Duplicates objects along a selected path or curve	Path Selection, Number of Items, Fit or Divide

Key Takeaways

Always select the object before starting the ARRAY command.

Choose the correct array type based on your pattern needs: Rectangular, Polar, or Path.

Specify spacing and number of items carefully to avoid overlaps or gaps.

Use the Quick Reference table to remember key parameters for each array type.