To Add a Reference Grid to a Map

You can add a reference system to your map in paper space. Reference systems include reference grids and graticules. A reference grid is a grid that overlays a map. A graticule is a network of geographic lines, such as latitude and longitude lines.

The grid can show more or less detail.

To add a reference system to a map

  1. Switch to a Layout Tab.
  2. In the ribbon, click Layout Tools > Reference System > Create .
  3. Select the viewport for the reference system. The Create Reference System Dialog Box appears.
  4. In the Create Reference System dialog box, specify the following:
    • Reference System Template: Select a lettering scheme for your reference grid. Use Latitude-Longitude, Military Grid Reference System, United States National Grid, or Current Map Coordinate System.
    • Scale: Select the actual scale for the reference grid.
    • Precision: Select the precision of the grid lines.
      The precision options vary, depending on the units used by the reference system:
      • Military Grid Reference System: A fixed set of precisions in meters or Grid Zones
      • Angular (for example, latitude-longitude): A fixed set of degrees
      • Linear (for example, United States National Grid): A fixed set of distances
      • Unknown: map space units, defaulting to 4 - 5 horizontal grid lines
      AutoCAD Map 3D toolset will draw grid lines at the precision level. Ticks are auto-generated. For angular grid lines, tick marks appear at 1/5 intervals; forlinear grid lines, tick marks appear at 1/10 intervals. For example, for a latitude-longitude system, if you specify grid lines at every 10 degrees, tick marks appear at every 2 degrees between the grid lines.
  5. Click OK.

    The grid appears on the layout. Grid labels are MText, and you can move or edit them independently.

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