Relative coordinates: when drawing a new segment using the relative coordinate system, the next point is referenced from which location?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: the ending point of the last line

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
CAD offers absolute, relative, and polar-relative entry methods. Relative coordinates (using the @ prefix) are indispensable for constructing chains of geometry without computing global coordinates each time.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • You are continuing a polyline or line segment sequence.
  • You choose to enter @dx,dy for the next point.
  • Or you use @r


Concept / Approach:
Relative coordinates are measured from the last picked/entered point. This allows fast layout of rectangles, bolt patterns, and offsets by simply keying the deltas or distance-angle pairs.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Finish or pick the last point of the current entity.Enter @dx,dy to move by deltas in X and Y from that last point.Alternatively, enter @distanceConfirm the temporary rubber-band shows the correct vector.Click/Enter to complete the segment.


Verification / Alternative check:
Use ID or Properties to confirm the new endpoint equals the last point plus the entered deltas.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 0,0: That is absolute origin, used for absolute coordinates, not relative.
  • Beginning point of the last line: Relative is from the most recent endpoint, not the start of the previous entity.
  • None of the above: Incorrect because option B is correct.


Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting the @ prefix results in absolute input; always include @ for relative coordinates.



Final Answer:
the ending point of the last line

More Questions from Computer Aided Design Basics

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion