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

In AutoCAD, use the OFFSET command to create a parallel copy of an object at a specified distance. Simply type OFFSET, select the object, enter the offset distance, and click the side to place the new object.

Syntax

The basic syntax for the Offset command in AutoCAD is:

• OFFSET - Starts the offset command.
• Select the object - Choose the line, circle, or shape to offset.
• Specify the offset distance - Enter how far the new object should be from the original.
• Specify the side - Click on the side where you want the offset object to appear.

plaintext

OFFSET
Select object:
Specify offset distance or [Through]: 5
Specify point on side to offset or [Exit]: click side

Output

A new object parallel to the original is created 5 units away on the chosen side.

Example

This example shows how to offset a line by 10 units to the right side.

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OFFSET
Select object: (select a line)
Specify offset distance or [Through]: 10
Specify point on side to offset or [Exit]: (click right side of line)

Output

A new line parallel to the original line appears 10 units to the right.

Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes when using Offset include:

• Not specifying the offset distance correctly, causing unexpected spacing.
• Clicking the wrong side, placing the offset object on the unintended side.
• Trying to offset complex objects without understanding how Offset works on them.

Always double-check the distance and side before finalizing the offset.

plaintext

Wrong way:
OFFSET
Select object:
Specify offset distance or [Through]: 5
Specify point on side to offset or [Exit]: (click wrong side)

Right way:
OFFSET
Select object:
Specify offset distance or [Through]: 5
Specify point on side to offset or [Exit]: (click correct side)

Output

Wrong side offset places the new object opposite to intended location; correct side offset places it as desired.

Quick Reference

Step	Action	Description
1	Type OFFSET	Start the offset command.
2	Select object	Choose the object to offset.
3	Enter distance	Specify how far to offset.
4	Click side	Choose which side to place the offset object.

Key Takeaways

Use the OFFSET command to create parallel copies of objects at a set distance.

Always specify the correct offset distance before clicking the side.

Click carefully on the side where you want the new object to appear.

Offset works on lines, circles, arcs, and many shapes for quick duplication.

Double-check your selection and distance to avoid mistakes.