How to Draw Arc in AutoCAD: Simple Steps and Examples

To draw an arc in AutoCAD, use the ARC command and specify points such as start, center, and end points. You can draw arcs by choosing options like 3-point, start-center-end, or start-end-angle to define the curve precisely.

Syntax

The basic syntax for drawing an arc in AutoCAD uses the ARC command followed by options to specify points:

• Start point: The beginning of the arc.
• Center point: The center of the circle the arc belongs to.
• End point: The end of the arc.
• Radius: The distance from the center to the arc.
• Angle: The sweep angle of the arc.

You can choose different methods like 3-point arc, start-center-end, or start-end-angle.

autocad command line

ARC
Specify start point of arc or [Center/End/Start/Angle]:  (pick start point)
Specify second point of arc or [Center/End/Radius]:  (pick second point or option)
Specify end point of arc:  (pick end point)

Output

An arc is drawn on the drawing area connecting the specified points.

Example

This example shows how to draw a 3-point arc by specifying the start, second, and end points.

autocad command line

ARC
Specify start point of arc or [Center/End/Start/Angle]: 0,0
Specify second point of arc or [Center/End/Radius]: 5,5
Specify end point of arc: 10,0

Output

An arc is drawn starting at (0,0), passing through (5,5), and ending at (10,0).

Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes when drawing arcs include:

• Not specifying points in the correct order, which can create unexpected arc shapes.
• Confusing the Center option with the Start or End points.
• Forgetting to choose the correct arc option for your needs (e.g., 3-point vs. start-center-end).

Always confirm the points visually before finalizing the arc.

autocad command line

ARC
Specify start point of arc or [Center/End/Start/Angle]: 10,0
Specify second point of arc or [Center/End/Radius]: 0,0
Specify end point of arc: 5,5

// This may create an unexpected arc shape because points are out of logical order.

// Correct way:
ARC
Specify start point of arc or [Center/End/Start/Angle]: 0,0
Specify second point of arc or [Center/End/Radius]: 5,5
Specify end point of arc: 10,0

Output

Wrong order creates an arc bending opposite to expected; correct order draws the intended arc.

Quick Reference

Option	Description
Start	Specify the start point of the arc
Center	Specify the center point of the arc's circle
End	Specify the end point of the arc
Radius	Specify the radius of the arc
Angle	Specify the sweep angle of the arc
3-Point	Draw arc by specifying three points on the arc

Key Takeaways

Use the ARC command and specify points in the correct order to draw arcs.

Choose the appropriate arc option (3-point, start-center-end, etc.) based on your drawing needs.

Always verify points visually to avoid unexpected arc shapes.

Remember that the center point defines the circle the arc belongs to.

Practice with simple arcs to get comfortable before drawing complex curves.