
If that describes you, you’re in the right place. Many newer AutoCAD users, and younger design firms, may be unsure how best to control line weights, and which line weights they should use. Most older design firms have established their office standards for controlling line weights. The type of plot style used is indicated in the Plot style section of the Properties box, as shown at left. You can easily determine whether an existing DWG file is set up for CTB or STB plot styles by going into model space and opening the Properties dialog box (by typing Ctrl-1) with nothing selected.

For further information on converting a drawing’s plot style between CTB and STB, take a look at the CONVERTPSTYLES and CONVERTCTB commands. It’s not easy to change from one to the other after the drawing is started.

Here is a link to an article giving a fairly balanced comparison of CTB and STB plot styles: CLICK TO SEE ARTICLE. Lots of spirited discussion has taken place about whether STB or CTB plot styles are better, simpler, or more efficient.

Properties dialog for a color-based plot style drawing
