Is the ʼMTextʼ command different from simple ʼTextʼ in BricsCAD?

ByCADbrief Staff

Short Answer

Yes — in BricsCAD, MTEXT is different from simple Text because it creates multi-line, paragraph-style notes with formatting, wrapping, and a built-in editor, while Text creates single-line text objects. The most common professional method is to use MTEXT for notes and annotations. Limitation: simple Text is still better for very small, fixed labels.

What You Need to Know Before

Warning: Converting or mixing single-line Text and MText in the same drawing can create inconsistent formatting, spacing, and line wrapping. A common failure is annotation standards breaking when copied between drawings with different text styles or width settings.

How to Use MText in BricsCAD

  • Command: MTEXT

  • Shortcut: T

  • Quick Steps:

    1. On the Ribbon, go to Annotate > Text, then choose MText.
    2. Pick the first corner and opposite corner of the text box to define the paragraph width.
    3. Type your note in the editor, then set a real option such as Text Height or Attachment in Properties before closing the editor.

Variables & Settings

  • Key Setting: Text frame / width of the MText box

  • Expert Setting: The width of the MText boundary controls automatic word wrap and paragraph behavior. If the box is too narrow, text breaks unexpectedly; if too wide, notes become hard to place cleanly on sheets.

Why it Fails

  • Cause 1 (Geometry): The MText boundary width is set too small, so text wraps into too many short lines or appears poorly formatted.
  • Cause 2 (layers/Locks): The target layer is locked, so the text cannot be edited or placed as expected.
  • Cause 3 (Command/Logic): Users choose Text instead of MText, then expect paragraph formatting, tabs, or automatic wrapping that single-line text does not support.

Quick Fix & Best Practice

  • Quick Fix: Use MTEXT, then adjust the text box grips or edit the width in Properties to correct wrapping immediately.
  • Manager’s Verdict: Use MText for nearly all notes, callouts, and general documentation. Use simple Text only for short labels, attribute-like entries, or cases where each line must remain independent.

FAQ

Can MText contain multiple lines in BricsCAD?

Yes, MText is designed for multi-line paragraph text.

Is simple Text faster for short labels?

Yes, single-line Text is often quicker for one-line tags or small identifiers.

Can I edit MText formatting after placing it?

Yes, you can reopen the MText editor and change formatting, width, and alignment later.

.

Related Posts: