Learn how to remove unwanted sketch items using the Delete tool.
What is the Delete tool?
You can use the Delete tool to remove selected sketch items from your design. You can delete individual lines and curves or multiple sketch items at once.
How to use the Delete tool
- Within an existing sketch, select the sketch items you want to remove.
For other ways to access tools, visit Accessing tools. - Select Delete to remove the selected sketch items.
When to use the Delete tool
The Delete tool is useful for:
- Removing unwanted geometry – Delete sketch items that are no longer needed in your design.
- Cleaning up sketches – Remove unnecessary lines and curves to simplify your sketch.
- Reworking a design – Delete existing sketch geometry before creating replacement geometry.
Best practices and troubleshooting
- Review your selection before deleting, especially when working with multiple sketch items.
- Use Undo if you accidentally delete the wrong sketch items.
- If you only need to remove part of a sketch item, use the Trim tool instead.
| Issue | What to check |
|---|---|
| The wrong sketch items were deleted. | Undo the action, then select only the items you want to remove. |
| The Delete option is unavailable. | Check that you have selected sketch items before accessing Delete. |
| More geometry was removed than intended. | Check whether you selected an entire sketch item. To remove only a portion, use Trim. |
Read more
- Accessing tools – Understand how tools appear based on what you select in the modeling space.
- Selecting geometry – Master selection techniques for edges, faces, sketches, and bodies.
- Defining and calculating numerical values – Learn how to apply dimensions, enter precise values, and use formulas.
- Keyboard shortcuts, gestures, and hotkeys – View keyboard shortcuts you can use to access tools and speed up actions.
- Variables and expressions – Set up reusable values and expressions to control your design parametrically.