How to write text on arc in AutoCAD?

Writing text on an arc in AutoCAD is efficiently achieved using the ARCTEXT command, part of AutoCAD's Express Tools, allowing you to align and format text along any arc or polyline arc segment.

Using the ARCTEXT Command

The ARCTEXT command simplifies the process of placing text along a curve, making it ideal for labels, signage, or specific design elements that require curved text.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure:

You have an existing arc or a polyline arc segment drawn in your AutoCAD drawing.
AutoCAD Express Tools are installed. Express Tools typically come with AutoCAD but might require a custom installation if missing.

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to align text along an arc:

Create your Arc: First, draw the arc you wish to place text on. You can use the ARC command (Home tab > Draw panel > Arc) or create an arc segment within a polyline.
Launch ARCTEXT:
- Navigate to the Express Tools tab on the ribbon.
- In the Text panel, click on the Arc Aligned Text button.
- Alternatively, type ARCTEXT (or ARCTEXTS in some AutoCAD versions) into the command line and press Enter.
Select the Arc: At the prompt, click on the arc object you want your text to follow. The direction in which you drew the arc can influence the initial text alignment.

Enter Text and Settings: The Arc Aligned Text dialog box will appear. This is where you define your text content and its properties.

In the "Text" field, type or paste the desired text. You can paste your text whatever text you are going to create whatever size you need.
Adjust the various settings to control the text's appearance and position relative to the arc.

Here's a breakdown of common options in the dialog:

Option	Description	Practical Insight
Text	The actual text content that will be placed on the arc.	Type or paste your desired label or phrase here.
Text Height	Determines the size of the characters.	Adjust for readability and scale relative to your drawing.
Offset from Arc	Sets the distance between the baseline of the text and the selected arc.	Positive values place text outside the arc; negative values place it inside.
Convexity	Controls whether the text follows the arc's curve in a convex (outward) or concave (inward) manner.	Ideal for placing text above or below the arc.
Character Width Factor	Stretches or compresses the characters horizontally. (1.0 = normal, <1.0 = compressed, >1.0 = stretched)	Use to fit more text into a shorter arc or to create a specific visual effect.
Offset from Left/Right	Specifies the distance the text is offset from the start and end points of the arc.	Helps center the text or align it to a specific point on the arc.
Align with Arc	Positions the text relative to the arc's center, ensuring consistent spacing along its length.	Essential for evenly distributed text along the curve.
Direction	Determines whether the text reads clockwise or counter-clockwise along the arc.	Crucial for readability; adjust if text appears upside down or reversed.

Confirm Settings: Once you have configured your text and settings to your satisfaction, click OK. The text will then be aligned to the selected arc, reflecting all your chosen properties.

Editing Existing Arc Text

To modify arc-aligned text after it has been placed:

Double-click: Simply double-click on the arc-aligned text directly in your drawing.
Use ARCTEXT Command: Alternatively, you can run the ARCTEXT command again and select the existing arc-aligned text object (not the original arc).
Modify in Dialog: The Arc Aligned Text dialog box will reappear, allowing you to make any necessary adjustments to the text content or properties.

Tips for Optimal Results

Express Tools Availability: If you cannot find the ARCTEXT command or the Express Tools tab, you might need to install them. Check your AutoCAD installation or refer to the Autodesk Knowledge Network for guidance on adding Express Tools.
Text Height and Arc Length: Ensure your Text Height is appropriate for the arc's length. Too large, and it might overlap; too small, and it might be hard to read.
Arc Creation Direction: Be mindful of the direction you draw your arc. If the text appears to be inside-out or reversed, adjust the Direction or Convexity options in the Arc Aligned Text dialog.
Trial and Error: Don't hesitate to experiment with the Offset from Arc and Character Width Factor settings to achieve the precise aesthetic you envision for your curved text.