How do I dimension a length?
On the element
- Choose Dimension (key D). The snap is set to automatic.
- Click the line — not its endpoint but the line itself. It is highlighted.
- Pull the pointer to the desired side: the preview shows dimension line and value.
- Click in empty space. The dimension is placed, and the Edit dimension dialog opens; close it with Cancel or Esc if you do not want to change anything.
Between two points
- Choose Dimension.
- Click the first point with snap — the automatic snap shows Endpoint, Midpoint or Centre.
- Click the second point with snap.
- Move the pointer: to the right or left of the points the vertical dimension is created, above or below the horizontal one, between the points the aligned one. Click.
Tip
Point-to-point dimensions suit overall dimensions across several elements, say the width of a plate with a chamfer: endpoint at the bottom left and endpoint of the chamfer at the top right, pointer below — horizontal dimension across the full width.
Distance between two parallel edges
Click the first edge (without point snap), then the second, parallel edge, and position the dimension line. The dimension shows the perpendicular distance and follows both edges.