How to find the total length of multiple lines in AutoCAD?

Brief Answer: To find the total length of multiple lines in AutoCAD, use the “Quick Properties” tool, the “Measuregeom” command, or a simple AutoLISP routine.

Detailed Explanation and Solutions:

1. Understanding the Need:
   • Calculating the total length of multiple lines is essential for various engineering and architectural tasks.
   • AutoCAD doesn’t have a direct built-in feature to sum lengths, but there are workarounds.
2. Using Quick Properties:
   • Enable Quick Properties: Right-click on the workspace, go to “Options”, and ensure “Quick Properties” is on.
   • Select Lines: Click to select all the lines you want to measure.
   • View Quick Properties: The total length will be displayed in the Quick Properties window.
3. Using Measuregeom Command:
   • Type Measuregeom: Enter MEASUREGEOM in the command line.
   • Select Distance Option: Choose the “Total length of selected objects” option.
   • Select Lines: Click to select each line whose length you want to total. Press Enter after selection.
   • View Total Length: AutoCAD will display the combined length.
4. Using AutoLISP Routine (Advanced):
   • Load AutoLISP: Type APPLOAD and load an AutoLISP routine designed for totaling lengths.
   • Run the Routine: Type the command associated with the routine.
   • Select Lines: Click to select the lines, then press Enter.
   • View Result: The total length will be displayed.

Key Points:

• Ensure Accurate Selection: Use object snaps for precise selection of lines.
• Line Types: Be aware that this includes all selected lines, regardless of type or layer.
• AutoLISP Limitation: AutoLISP requires basic programming knowledge or a pre-made script.

These methods provide different ways to calculate the total length of multiple lines in AutoCAD, each useful depending on the complexity and specifics of your task.