14 AutoCAD and Its Applications—Basics Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Ribbon The ribbon docks horizontally below the AutoCAD window title bar by default. See Figure 1-12. The ribbon provides a convenient location from which to select commands and options that traditionally would require access by extensive typing, multiple toolbars, or several menus. Use the tabs along the top of the ribbon to access collections of related ribbon panels, or panels. Each panel houses groups of similar commands. For example, the Annotate tab includes several panels, each with specifi commands for creating, fic modifying, and formatting annotations, such as text. The tabs and panels shown when the Drafting & Annotation workspace is active provide access to 2D drawing commands. Highlighted, context-sensitive tabs appear when some commands, such as the HATCH command, are active or when you work in a unique environment, such as the Block Editor. tab: A small stub at the top or side of a page, window, dialog box, or palette that allows you to access other portions of the item. ribbon panels (panels): Divided areas in the ribbon that group commands. Figure 1-11. Use the Quick Access toolbar to access commonly used commands. Pick a button to activate the corresponding command or pick a flyout to access related or alternative commands. Pick to display a flyout Pick to display options for customizing the Quick Access toolbar D De fault Toolbar When a Drawing Is Open Default Toolbar When No Drawing Is Open Figure 1-12. The ribbon is docked at the top of the drawing window by default and provides access to commands and command options. Tabs Drop-down list Flyout button Panels Panel title Pick to expand a panel Pick to display a dialog box or palette associated with the panel Minimize flyout