AutoCAD drafting practice: when adding a diameter dimension to a circle that already shows a center mark, how can the drafter prevent AutoCAD from placing (stacking) another center mark on the same circle?

Introduction / Context:
Dimension style control in CAD ensures consistent symbols and prevents duplicated markers. Circles often already include a center mark from a prior command or block. Adding a new diameter dimension can auto-generate another center mark unless the setting is disabled.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• A circle already has a visible center mark.
• A new diameter dimension is being placed.
• The goal is to avoid duplicate (stacked) center marks.

Concept / Approach:
AutoCAD associates a center mark property with radial dimensions. This can be toggled per-dimension via Properties (Center Mark: None) or globally via the dimension style manager. Editing the placed dimension is faster than exploding or trimming.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Print or preview the drawing; only one center mark should appear at the circle's center. If this will be repeated often, adjust the dimension style so new radial dimensions default to no center mark.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Explode the dimension and then erase the center mark.: Breaks associativity; not recommended.
• It can't be done.: It is fully supported via Properties or dimension styles.
• Use the trim tool to take away the stacked center mark.: Trimming annotation is imprecise and may leave remnants.

Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting to update the dimstyle leads to repeated manual edits. Standardize the setting in the template for consistency.

Final Answer:
Use the Properties dialog box to turn off the center mark of the dimension.