Session 5: Moving Objects in 3D

There are a number of ways to move objects in Vectorworks, some are more accurate than others but all will prove useful at some time. To move efficiently it is important to have a clear understanding of three-dimensional space and its co-ordinate system.

• Modify>Move (Ctrl M): To move an object or multiple objects accurately we can use this command. type in numerical distances for either x/y or both. We can use both positive and negative distances (to move an object up make sure you are in either a front, back or side view).

• Manually with the mouse: Simply selecting and moving an object is useful but for more accuracy make sure that you select an object by the 'crosshair' cursor, this allows you to align that point with another point in your model (even when in an isometric view!).

• Arrow keys: Select an object, hold down the shift key and use the 'nudge' arrows on the keyboard. This will move an object in one direction only. This is good for making small adjustments to an objects position (If you have to move objects over a large distance, try zooming out further so that the objects move quicker).

• Object info. Palette: You can reposition objects using their x/y/z co-ordinate position on the drawing grid.