Chapter 2: Template File Setup (.
DWT)
2.1 Objective of This Chapter
The goal of this chapter is to define how to create a customized AutoCAD Template File
(.DWT) that will serve as the base environment for all structural drawings. By setting up a
standardized .DWT, you can preload your units, layers, linetypes, annotation styles, title
blocks, plotting settings, and layouts — eliminating repetitive setup on every new project.
2.2 What Is a .DWT File?
A Drawing Template File (.DWT) in AutoCAD is a file format specifically used to define
default:
- Drawing units and precision
- Layers and linetypes
- Dimension and text styles
- Layouts and viewports
- Title blocks
- Plotting setup (CTB/STB)
- Annotation scales
- Block libraries or palettes
It behaves exactly like a .DWG, except that it is intended for reuse, and AutoCAD treats it as a
clean starting point each time.
2.3 Components to Include in Your Structural Template
Component Purpose
Drawing Units Precision control; matches ISO/SANS
(covered in Chapter 1)
Layers & Layer States Categorize content (e.g., beams, columns,
text, dimensions)
Linetypes & Lineweights Control visual clarity and plotting
standards
Text Styles Control font consistency, size, and
annotation readability
Dimension Styles Standardize dimension appearance and
scale compatibility
Layouts (A0–A4) Predefined plotting environments with
viewports and title blocks
Title Blocks Contain metadata: project name, sheet no.,
date, drafter, checker, etc.
Viewports Allow scaled views from model space into
paper space
Plot Style Table (CTB) Ensure lineweight/color consistency on
printed sheets
Annotation Scales Enable scalable annotations for multi-scale
layouts
2.4 Step-by-Step: Creating a Custom .DWT File in AutoCAD
Step 1: Start with a Clean DWG
1. Open AutoCAD.
2. Choose a clean metric template like: [Link] or start from a blank drawing.
Step 2: Save as a Template
1. Go to: File → Save As → Drawing Template (*.dwt)
2. Name your file: STRUCT_TEMPLATE_MM.DWT
3. Choose a suitable folder, e.g., C:\CAD Standards\Templates
4. Enter a description: “Standard structural template for AutoCAD – Metric, mm-based, ISO-
compliant.”
Step 3: Set Up Key Template Features
Feature Setup Command / Path
Units UNITS → Set to Decimal, mm
INSUNITS INSUNITS → Set to 4
Layers LAYER → Create structural layers
Linetypes LINETYPE, LOAD → Add dashed, center, etc.
Dimension Styles DIMSTYLE → Create and save standard dim
style
Text Styles STYLE → Define for notes, titles, callouts
Layouts LAYOUT, PAGESETUP → Create A1–A4
templates
Title Blocks BLOCK, ATTDEF, BEDIT → Insert or draw
title block
Viewports VPORTS → Add and lock scale
Plot Styles PLOTSTYLE, PAGESETUP → Load
[Link]
Annotation Scales SCALELISTEDIT → Add 1:100, 1:50, 1:20,
etc.
2.5 Where to Store Your Template
Store your .DWT files in a shared folder accessible to your team.
- Example: C:\Company_CAD_Standards\Templates\
- Backup regularly
- Distribute read-only copies
Set AutoCAD default template: Options → Files tab → Template Settings → Default Template
File Name for QNEW
2.6 Testing the Template
Before deploying:
- Open a new drawing using your .DWT
- Confirm all layers, title blocks, dimstyles, and layouts
- Test plotting at 1:100
- Verify viewport lock and scale behavior
2.7 Best Practice Tips
- Create separate templates for general arrangements, rebar detailing, and site layouts.
- Include a 'README' layout or hidden notes to explain usage.
- Use version control for templates (e.g., STRUCT_TEMPLATE_MM_v1.dwt).
- Link title block fields to Sheet Set Manager for automation.
2.8 Summary Checklist
- [x] Units set to mm & decimal
- [x] Saved as .DWT file
- [x] Layers & lineweights set
- [x] Title block inserted
- [x] Layouts for A0–A4 prepared
- [x] Viewports locked and scaled
- [x] Plot styles applied (CTB)
- [x] File saved in standard folder