Removing entities from a selection

When using complex and extensive selections, it may be necessary or at least useful to remove a particular entity or entities from the already made selection.

In general, there are two ways to remove an entity from an existing selection: "[Ctrl] key" method and "deselection mode" method.

"[Ctrl] key" method ("[Shift] key" method)

All the selection modes for making a selection can be used as well for removal of specific entities from the current selection. In order to activate the "subtract from selection" mode, the user must press down and hold [Ctrl] key on the keyboard.

Note: The [Ctrl] key method in fact INVERTS the selection (i.e. it is not REMOVAL from the selection, but an unselected item is selected and a selected item is deselected).

Note: The [Shift] key can be used instead of the [Ctrl] key - these two keys are interchangeable (in this function).

Example 1:

Let’s assume that a selection of some entities has been already made. Now, the user needs to remove one particular entity.

The procedure will be:

  1. Position the mouse cursor over the entity that should be extracted from the selection.

  2. Press down and hold [Ctrl] key.

  3. Click the left mouse button.

  4. The entity is removed from the selection.

  5. Release [Ctrl] key.

Example 2:

Let’s assume that a selection of some entities has been already made. Now, the user needs to remove a few entities that are parallel to each other and located close to each other.

The procedure will be:

  1. Choose selection mode Select by intersection via SCIA Spotlight or Main menu > Tools > Selections.

  2. Press down and hold [Ctrl] key.

  3. Position the mouse cursor next to the first entity that should be removed from the selection and outwards from the others.

  4. Use left mouse click to define the start of the intersection line, i.e. the line or polygon intersecting all the required entities.

  5. Close the intersection line with a double-click on the left mouse button.

  6. Release [Ctrl] key.

"Deselection mode" method

It is also possible to use Main menu > Tools > Selections > Toggle deselection mode. All the selection modes described in chapter Making a selection then remove entities from the previously made selection.

Note: It is also possible to remove entities from selection using command "SEL" typed on the command line with the appropriate switch and parameter. For more information see chapter Making a selection.