How do you insert an external reference (Xref) into a drawing?

To insert an external reference (Xref) into a drawing, utilizing the "XREF" command is the appropriate approach. The XREF command is specifically designed for attaching and managing external references within Autodesk software, particularly in AutoCAD. This command enables users to link drawings or images from other files, allowing for a modular and efficient workflow as changes made to the source file are automatically reflected in the drawing that references it.

This method is advantageous since it helps keep file sizes smaller and ensures that all team members are viewing and working from the most current version of referenced drawings, facilitating better collaboration. Additionally, the XREF command provides options to manage the referenced files, including the ability to detach or bind them for integration into the current drawing.

Other commands such as "INSERT," "LINK," and "IMPORT" serve different functions. For instance, the INSERT command typically involves inserting block definitions into the current drawing rather than linking external files. The IMPORT command is generally used for bringing in data from other formats rather than working specifically with external references. Using the "LINK" command might imply linking data for different purposes, but it does not specifically address the insertion of Xrefs, making it less suitable for this task. Thus, the "XREF" command is