embodiments of the invention include a method for aligning and laying out drawing elements in a computer - aided design drawing and computer - readable medium storing instructions for implementing the method . specifically , one embodiment of the present invention sets forth a method , which includes the steps of receiving a selection of an insertion point on an object within the cad drawing , where the drawing element attaches to the object at the insertion point , placing the drawing element at the insertion point , and orienting the drawing element at a predetermined alignment angle relative to the object .