Commands

ARRAYEDIT command in AutoCAD : Edits associative array objects and their source objects

If you’re Learning AutoCAD and need a clear, practical guide to using the ARRAYEDIT command, this article explains what it does, how to use it step-by-step, common reasons it may fail and how to fix them, alternative methods, useful tips, and a FAQ to answer follow-up questions.

What is the ARRAYEDIT command?

The ARRAYEDIT command in AutoCAD is used to edit associative array objects created with the ARRAY command. An associative array keeps its pattern and relationships so you can change the number of rows, columns, items, spacing or the source object and the entire array updates automatically.

Key points:

  • Works only with associative arrays (not legacy, exploded or non-associative arrays).
  • Lets you change items, rows/columns/levels, base point, and edit the source objects used to create the array.
  • Opens a contextual editing mode (ribbon and grips) for convenient in-place editing.

When to use ARRAYEDIT

Use ARRAYEDIT when you need to:

  • Change the count of elements (rows, columns, levels).
  • Add or remove specific array items.
  • Modify the source geometry so all instances update.
  • Change the array’s anchor/base point or spacing.

It’s ideal when you want parametric, repeatable patterns that remain linked to a single source element.

How to use ARRAYEDIT — Step by step

1) Create an associative array (if you don’t already have one)

  • Command: type ARRAY and press Enter.
  • Choose Rectangular, Polar (circular), or Path.
  • Before completing, ensure Associative is enabled (AutoCAD’s default when using the modern ARRAY tool). The preview shows the pattern; finish to create the array.
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2) Start editing the array

  • Select the array object in the drawing. The Array contextual ribbon appears.
  • Or type ARRAYEDIT and press Enter, then pick the array when prompted.
  • The array enters edit mode, showing grips and array-specific options.

3) Common edit options you’ll use

  • Edit Source: Select to modify the original geometry used to populate the array. When you edit the source, all array items update.
  • Items: Select individual items or a range to remove, isolate, or perform operations on specific instances.
  • Rows / Columns / Levels (Rectangular arrays): Increase or decrease the numeric counts to change the layout.
  • Base Point: Change the anchor point from which spacing and transformations are measured.
  • Spacing / Fill / Fit (Path & Polar arrays): Adjust how items fit along a path or around a center.

Use the ribbon controls or the mini-toolbar that appears. You can also use grips for quick manual adjustments.

4) Finish editing

  • Click Close Array Editor on the ribbon or press Enter to exit edit mode and save changes.
  • The array remains associative and editable unless you explode it.

Practical examples (before/after scenarios)

  • Example 1 — Change column count:

    • Before: A rectangular array has 4 columns.
    • Action: Select array → Edit → Columns = 6.
    • After: The pattern stretches/duplicates to show 6 columns while retaining original spacing or adapting spacing depending on settings.

  • Example 2 — Edit source geometry:

    • Before: An array of a single door block.
    • Action: Edit source to change door swing or style.
    • After: All instances in the array update to reflect the new door geometry.

  • Example 3 — Remove a single item:

    • Before: Unsightly duplicate at one location.
    • Action: Array → Items → select that instance → Remove.
    • After: That item is removed; the rest of the array remains intact.
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Why ARRAYEDIT might not work (errors and fixes)

  1. Problem: The array is not associative

    • Symptom: Command cannot enter edit mode or array shows no array-specific options.
    • Fix: Select the array and check the Properties palette. If Associative = No, you cannot use ARRAYEDIT. Recreate the array with the ARRAY command (make sure to use the modern ARRAY, not a legacy option) to get an associative array.

  2. Problem: Array is inside a block or nested block

    • Symptom: ARRAYEDIT won’t let you modify items or source.
    • Fix: Use BEDIT to open the block definition and edit the array there, or explode the block (if appropriate) to access the array directly. After editing, redefine or reinsert the block.

  3. Problem: Layer is locked or objects are frozen/off

    • Symptom: No selection or no visible changes.
    • Fix: Unlock the layer and thaw/make visible any needed layers, then try again.

  4. Problem: AutoCAD version or workspace differences

    • Symptom: Command not recognized or different UI.
    • Fix: Ensure your AutoCAD version supports associative arrays (modern Array was introduced around AutoCAD 2012). On older versions, recreate arrays with current Array or update AutoCAD. You can also use the ribbon Array Editing tools if ARRAYEDIT is not typed.

  5. Problem: Array was exploded or converted to individual objects

    • Symptom: No array object to edit.
    • Fix: You must recreate the pattern with the ARRAY command to regain associative editing.

  6. Problem: Array nested within an xref or read-only reference

    • Symptom: Cannot modify.
    • Fix: Open the source drawing or bind the xref before editing.

  7. Problem: Selection settings or system variables interfering

    • Symptom: Unable to select items.
    • Fix: Check selection filters and ensure PICKFIRST and PICKADD settings allow selection. Use the Properties palette or ribbon to access array editing if selection is problematic.

Alternatives and related commands

  • Recreate the pattern using the ARRAY command (modern associative arrays).
  • Use older array-specific commands if required by workflow: RECTANG/polar copies via COPY/ROTATE for manual control.
  • Explode the array to edit individual objects (loses association).
  • Edit array content by editing the source object (double-click or right-click → edit block/Entity) so all instances update.
  • Use BEDIT or block editing if the array is inside a block definition.
  • For simple repetition, consider using the COPY command with precise polar or rectangular transforms if associative behavior is not needed.
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Tips and best practices

  • Keep arrays associative when you may need future edits. Avoid exploding unless you must.
  • Use the Array contextual ribbon—it offers the fastest and most visual editing controls.
  • Use a consistent base point when creating arrays so future edits behave predictably.
  • When editing source geometry, consider editing in a separate layer or with layer isolation to avoid accidental changes.
  • Save versions before major array edits—if you make a mistake you can revert.
  • If an array is part of a complex composition (nested blocks, xrefs), keep a reference drawing where arrays are editable for future updates.

FAQ

How can I tell if an array is associative?

Open the Properties palette with the array selected. If the property Associative is set to Yes, it is associative and editable with ARRAYEDIT. If No, it’s a non-associative/legacy array and cannot be edited with ARRAYEDIT.

Can I convert a legacy (non-associative) array into an associative one?

There is no automatic conversion command. The reliable method is to recreate the array using the modern ARRAY command so the new array is associative.

Why can’t I edit an array that’s inside a block?

Arrays inside block definitions must be edited in the block editor (BEDIT). Open the block definition, edit the array there, save changes and close the block editor. Alternatively, explode the block if breaking the block is acceptable.

How do I remove just one instance from an associative array?

Enter ARRAYEDIT, use the Items selection tool to pick the instance(s) you want to remove, then use the remove/erase option available in the array editor. If that option is not visible, select the item and press Delete—depending on workflow and version, the ribbon provides a direct remove function.

What if ARRAYEDIT is not recognized when I type it?

Confirm your AutoCAD version supports associative arrays (post-2012 modern Array). If your version is older or a specialized variant (some verticals/older installs), you may need to update AutoCAD or use the ribbon Array editing controls instead of the typed command.

Is there a keyboard shortcut for ARRAYEDIT?

There is no universal default shortcut beyond typing ARRAYEDIT. You can create a custom alias in the PGP file (e.g., add AE, ARRAYEDIT) or assign a custom shortcut through CUI if you prefer quicker access.

Will exploding an array affect my drawing size/performance?

Exploding an array converts repeated instances into individual objects, which can significantly increase your drawing’s object count and potentially affect performance. Keep associative arrays when possible to maintain a lighter, parametric model.

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