How to Save and Reuse a DSD Publish List in AutoCAD
A DSD (Drawing Set Descriptions) file saves the list of drawings and Layouts assembled in the Publish dialog. It is useful when the same package must be republished after revisions without rebuilding the sheet list.
Start here — what you are going to do
Your goal: Save a tested Publish sheet list and load it again for repeatable issue packages.
Where to start: Build the correct Publish list with intended drawings, Layouts and order.
Beginner rule: A DSD saves the sheet list, not a frozen copy of the DWG content. Source drawings still need to be saved and available.
Step by step — follow this in AutoCAD
Step 1 — Open PUBLISH
Where: Output > Batch Plot / PUBLISH.
Do this: Assemble the correct drawing and Layout sheets.
Check: List matches the issue package.
Step 2 — Clean the list
Where: Publish sheet list.
Do this: Remove drafts and set correct order.
Check: Batch is production-ready.
Step 3 — Save Sheet List
Where: Publish dialog > Save Sheet List.
Do this: Save the .dsd in a controlled project location.
Check: DSD exists.
Step 4 — Reopen PUBLISH
Where: PUBLISH.
Do this: Start with a clean list when testing reuse.
Check: Dialog is ready.
Step 5 — Load Sheet List
Where: Publish dialog > Load Sheet List.
Do this: Select the DSD and replace or append as intended.
Check: Same list returns.
Step 6 — Review changed conditions
Where: Page Setup, details and paths.
Do this: Confirm source paths and output standards are still valid.
Check: Old DSD remains appropriate.
Step 7 — Republish
Where: Publish.
Do this: Create updated PDF package.
Check: Issue set is reproducible.
Beginner example
A weekly coordination package uses the same 45 Layouts. Save Coordination-Issue.dsd, then load it after revisions instead of rebuilding all 45 entries.
Understand what AutoCAD is doing
DSD stores publishing description
It describes drawing files and selected Layouts.
Source drawings remain live
Updated saved DWGs can be republished.
Paths and standards can age
Moved drawings or changed setups can make an old DSD fail.
Useful next guides: Publish Multiple DWG Files to PDF · Change Sheet Order in PUBLISH · AutoCAD PUBLISH Uses the Wrong Page Setup · AutoCAD Batch Publish Stops or Fails · PDF & Publishing
Common problems and what to check first
| What you see | What may be causing it | Check this first |
|---|---|---|
| DSD loads missing sheets | Drawing paths changed | Repair paths or list. |
| Old setup publishes wrong device | Project standard changed | Review before republish. |
| Unsaved revisions absent | Source DWGs not saved | Save first. |
| Users have different DSDs | No controlled source | Store one approved list. |
When you need a more repeatable workflow
Keep production DSD files with the sheet index and update them deliberately when drawing names, paths or package scope change.
Official Autodesk references
AutoCAD labels and available media can vary by release, driver and output device. These Autodesk pages document the core workflow used in this guide.
Frequently asked questions
What does DSD stand for?
Drawing Set Descriptions.
Does DSD contain DWG geometry?
No.
Can I append a DSD?
The Publish dialog supports replacing or appending lists.
Explore more in CAD PDF & Publishing Guide.