Why I Created KCMD, My Keyboard-First App for AutoCAD
For those who prefer to keep their hands on the keyboard, the idea of controlling everything from one place feels natural. If you’re into CAD software and keyboard shortcuts, you’ll understand this perspective. I’m an enthusiastic Neovim user, and I even have Vim keybindings on my browser. So, naturally, I wanted a way to make AutoCAD more keyboard-friendly.
AutoCAD, in comparison to other CAD software, is surprisingly okay in this department—it has a command line, which you’d think would let you do almost everything from the keyboard. But after a decade of experience, I can tell you it doesn’t work quite that way. There’s only so far it goes. I get it; CAD is about drawing, which means at some point, you’re going to need the mouse. But there are areas where AutoCAD could be better for keyboard lovers like me.
For example, layer management in AutoCAD is a real headache if you’re trying to avoid the mouse. Sure, there are commands, but they often feel like they’re nudging you back to the mouse. So, I thought, why not create my own tool to improve this experience?
And that’s how KCMD was born. This app isn’t about replacing AutoCAD’s command line, but about extending it with features that make managing layers, files, and tabs much faster and more keyboard-friendly.
The Technical Stuff
KCMD is written in AutoLISP, a scripting language for AutoCAD (it’s part of the Lisp family if you’re into programming languages). With it, I was able to build out a range of tools designed to make using AutoCAD feel as natural as possible for people who love using the keyboard. It’s open source, too, which means anyone who shares this keyboard obsession can contribute.
What KCMD Can Do:
- Layer Management: From toggling visibility to locking and unlocking layers, it’s all command-based.
- File Switching: Jump between open files without clicking around.
- Quick Layout Navigation: Switch between layout tabs with ease.
- File System Navigation: Move through directories, open files, and even launch Windows Explorer—all from within AutoCAD.
Why Use a Command When You Can Click?
Some might wonder why anyone would bother typing a command instead of just clicking an icon. That’s fair; KCMD isn’t for everyone. But if you’re someone who, like me, finds satisfaction in managing everything with a keyboard, you might appreciate what this tool brings to the table.
How to Get Started
If you’re interested, KCMD is available on GitHub and open for anyone who wants to use or contribute. You can find the latest release here for easy downloading. Installation is simple—just download the latest version, load it into AutoCAD, and start with commands like :flayer for layer management. There’s more in the README if you’re curious about specific commands.
Whether or not KCMD is something you’d use, I hope you found a bit of insight here into why I built it. To me, it’s about making the experience as seamless and keyboard-friendly as possible.