What is the function of the "OFFSET" command?

The "OFFSET" command in AutoCAD is specifically designed to create a parallel copy of an object at a set distance from the original. When you invoke this command, you select the object you wish to offset and specify the distance you want the new copy to be placed from that original object. This can be helpful in a variety of drafting situations, such as creating parallel lines for roadways or buildings, setting offset boundaries, or even designing elements of a mechanical part. The OFFSET command enhances efficiency by allowing users to maintain equal spacing without needing to manually measure and place new objects individually.

In contrast, changing the layer of an object pertains to organization and management of drawing elements and does not involve creating new geometry. Erasing selected objects is a separate command that completely removes them from the drawing, and dividing an object into segments is also a distinct function that breaks it down into smaller parts, rather than creating a new parallel copy. Thus, the primary purpose of the OFFSET command is to duplicate geometry at a defined distance, making it essential for various design tasks in AutoCAD.