Learn how to move geometry by dragging or defining a translation between two reference points.
What is the Translate tool?
You can use the Translate tool to reposition sketches, sketch profiles, or 3D bodies by dragging or selecting two reference points. The start and end points define the direction and distance of the movement.
How to use the Translate tool
- Go to Transform > Translate.
For other ways to access tools, visit Accessing tools. - Select the items you want to translate.
- Select a start point.
- Select an end point to define the direction and distance of the translation. You can drag either point to adjust the movement.
- Optional: To adjust settings while the tool is active, select Translate again to open the parameter card.
- To finish, click anywhere on an empty area.
Parameter Card and History Settings
The Translate tool includes a parameter card for selecting geometry, defining the translation, and controlling whether the original is retained.
Parameter Card settings
- Bodies – Select the bodies, planes, or axes to translate.
- Faces – Select faces to translate.
- Edges – Select body edges to translate.
- Start Point – Select or edit the starting point of the movement.
- End Point – Select or edit the destination point of the movement.
- Copy – Turn on to create a translated copy while keeping the original; turn off to move the original geometry.
History settings
Translate parameters are saved in History. To change them later, open History and select the Translate step to edit the parameters.
When to use the Translate tool
The Translate tool is useful for:
- Precise repositioning – Move a body between known reference points in your design.
- Aligning parts by reference – Relocate geometry using existing vertices, edges, or grid points.
- Creating offset copies – Duplicate geometry at a position defined by two points.
- Rearranging sketch geometry – Move sketch items or profiles to another location using reference points.
Best practices and troubleshooting
- For precise movement, select start and end points that represent the exact translation you need.
- Use snapping to select reference points accurately.
- Check Copy before finishing if you need to preserve the original geometry.
| Issue | What to check |
|---|---|
| The geometry moves in the wrong direction. | Check the order of the start and end points. |
| The geometry moves to the wrong position. | Check that both points snapped to the intended references. |
| The original geometry is missing. | Check whether Copy was enabled. |