Using the CTRL Key

While helping a customer with a support call the other day, I came across more proof that the developers are more clever than credited. As part of their strive to make sure the software is intuitive, a lot of the keyboard shortcuts used in one scenario, carry over to another. A great example is the use of the CTRL key.

The Tip

Did you know that the CTRL key can help you duplicate an entity in a speedy fashion?
Select an entity, then hold down the CTRL key, and click and drag. A copy of your item will appear and you can control its location by moving your mouse.

Now the most familiar time to use this might be while generating a ref. plane like shown in the previous picture. Or maybe you’re more familiar with the trick while duplicating sketch entities.

Did you know it works during the Loft Wizard too?

Or how about to generate additional points on a 3D curve?

This trick can be applied in a few other places as well. Its yet another way the software decreases work time, making you more efficient.