Modelspace Annotations vs Paperspace

Issue:
Are you not sure whether you should be putting annotations in Modelspace or Paperspace? Don’t stress! Most people are probably asking the same question. Honestly, either is great but I think it depends on the project/ job. This blog will go over the pros and cons of both Modelspace and Paperspace annotations.

Modelspace
Pros:
•    The annotations are in the same space as the objects in the project
•    The layers can be frozen/ turned off for plotting
•    Viewports can be moved without disassociating the dimensions/ annotations
•    Dimensions will update if things are moved
•    Multiple dimensions styles can be used for different viewport scales
•    Great for 2D drawings

Cons:
•    The annotations can accidently get deleted or moved
•    Snapping a dimension to the wrong point
•    Not good with 3D drawings

Paperspace
Pros:
•    The model space drawing isn’t cluttered with annotations/ dimensions
•    Don’t have to set layers to be frozen/ off in viewport to show certain annotations
•    Multiple viewports with different scales are easy to manage
•    Great with 2D & 3D drawings

Cons:
•    Having to check/ fix dimensions if things in model space move
•    Moving the viewport becomes a longer task with risk of disassociating dimensions/ annotations

Annotative
Pros: 
•    Easy to set up
•    Works for multiple dimstyles
•    Works for multiple scales and layouts
•    Time saving
•    Ensures consistency throughout the files/ drawings

Cons:
•    There is a learning curve but once it’s learned it’s a huge time saver. 
Conclusion:
Here is some additional information regarding Autodesk annotations.

Modelspace & Paperspace

Annotative

About the Author

Sr. Support Specialist<br><br>Paul is responsible for client technical support as well as the set-up and configuring of plotters; support and service calls; and the installation, demonstration, and education of clients in AutoCAD, AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD MEP, AutoCAD P&ID, Advance Steel, Navisworks, Raster Design, Revit Architecture, Revit MEP, Revit Structure and 3D Studio MAX. He draws upon his years of experience as a technical engineer to assist customers in the creation and implementation of standards, the set-up of plotter and pen styles and the creation of custom blocks.

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