How to Make a Shape File in AutoCAD

Shape files can be created in AutoCAD 2007 or newer.

AutoCAD is a 3-D CAD design, architectural drawing, modeling, drafting and engineering software. You can use it to design anything from a needle to an entire car. Starting with AutoCAD 2007, you can create a project and save it project as a shape file. Shape files are flat, two-dimensional images that are extensively used in Geographic Information Systems. The process of creating a shape file in AutoCAD is simple and does not require any special skills.

Things You'll Need

• AutoCAD 2007 or newer

Instructions

1. Open AutoCAD by double-clicking the executable file. Wait for the software to start and load all its modules before you continue.

2. Go to File and select "Open" to open a previously saved project. You can also create a new project by going to File and selecting "New."

3. Draw an object using AutoCAD's built-in set of tools.

4. Go to File and select "Save As" to save your project. This will open the Save window, where you can select the file type used for saving. Enter a name for your file in the Name box and select a location where to save it by clicking on Browse and using the file browser.

5. Click the "Format" drop-down box at the bottom of the screen to select the file type. Pick the "Shape File" format (SHP) and click "Save" to save your project as a shape file.

References

• AECbytes: AutoCAD 2007

Resources

• CADTutor: Drawing Objects