Text in model space or paper space

[TKall]

An AutoCAD consultant suggested that I create drawings of the objects in model space but add text annotations, leaders, dimensions etc in paper space. I would appreciate advice.

Tom

[MSasu]

As you already observed, there are two methods to add the labels/dimensions - in Model Space, respectively in Paper Space; each method had its own advantages and disadvantages. The matter was discussed many times in the past without comming to a conclusion. So, I suggest you to do a search on the Forum and read the previous discussions to decide which suit best your case.

[Dadgad]

It is definitely a matter of personal preference, and there are good arguments, pro and con, and informed proponents on both sides of the fence.

Personally, for the work which I do, I prefer doing all text, dimensions and annotations in paperspace.

The discipline in which one works could well affect one's preference.

[ReMark]

When we made the jump to using paper space layouts we decided it was in our best interest to put our text and dimensions in the layout. However, we have well over 500 drawings where everything is in model space (pre-annotative scaling) and the likelihood of anyone going back and reworking those drawings is nil.

[Organic]

When we made the jump to using paper space layouts we decided it was in our best interest to put our text and dimensions in the layout. However, we have well over 500 drawings where everything is in model space (pre-annotative scaling) and the likelihood of anyone going back and reworking those drawings is nil.

 

Only 500? I don't know how many we have but it would easily be in excess of 5000. We convert them if we make substantial work on them again.

[Lazer]

This one has been asked many times over the years I remember asking the same question myself to the teacher many years ago, he said do it they way that get you a pass. These days I use paper space for text and model space for drawings, I have also been drawn (forget the pun) to dimensions in paper space. You need to try both and see what works for you.

[TKall]

So it appears the experts seem to agree that paper space is generally the best place for text, dimensions and other annotations. I have to assume that there is a way to associate the model space drawing with the paper space dimensioning so that when the object is moved inside the viewport the dimensioning moves with it. And, ok...I have not done an exhaustive search of the forum for an answer to this question because I enjoy and prefer the conversation. sorry.

[Dadgad]

Yes you can use ASSOCIATIVE dimensions in paperspace.

 

Let's not forget that there plenty of other professional and long time users

who have not responded who would take exception to this practice.

[TKall]

In the book, "AutoCAD: Secrets every user should know", Dan Abbott suggests that geometry independent annotations be located in paper space and all geometry dependent annotations be located in model space. I have found it quite a bit easier to annotate in paper space and it seems that with AutoCad when something is easy, there is a bite in the ass right around the corner. So I thought I would ask.

[ReMark]

There are very good reasons for placing one's dimensions and text in model space. That's why AutoCAD now includes a feature called Annotative Scaling. I think it also depends on what field you are working in.