Direct distance entry (horizontal segment exactly 3 inches): before typing the length value, what should the drafter do first to guarantee a perfectly horizontal line?
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Apull the line from away from the starting point very carefully
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Binsure that Ortho is on
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Center 3 for the length of the line
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Dread the coordinate position on the Dynamic Readout
Answer
Correct Answer: insure that Ortho is on
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Direct distance entry lets you point the cursor in a direction and type the exact length. To ensure true horizontals or verticals, CAD systems provide Ortho mode, which constrains movement to 0/90/180/270 degrees.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- We want a line exactly horizontal and 3.00 units long.
- Direct distance entry is in use (move cursor, type value).
- Cursor angle must be locked to horizontal.
Concept / Approach:Enabling Ortho guarantees straight horizontal/vertical directions regardless of small hand motions. Then, with the cursor pointing right or left, entering 3 sets the exact length without risk of angular error.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Turn Ortho ON (F8 or status bar).Start the Line command and pick the start point.Move the cursor horizontally (right or left).Type 3 and press Enter to fix the length.Finish or continue the polyline as needed.Verification / Alternative check:Use Angle or Properties to confirm the segment angle is 0 or 180 degrees and the length is 3.00 units.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Pull very carefully: Prone to human error; not precise.
- Entering 3 first: Without direction constraint you could draw 3 at a slight angle.
- Reading Dynamic Readout: Helpful, but Ortho ensures exact direction.
Common Pitfalls:Leaving Ortho off leads to tiny angular deviations that accumulate across a drawing; always constrain direction for orthogonal geometry.
Final Answer:insure that Ortho is on