To speed modeling, ETABS offers options to apply some actions to multiple stories at the same time. Apply this feature using the Similar Stories drop-down list, which is located on the right-hand side of the status bar at the bottom of the ETABS window.
When working in a plan view, choose the appropriate option:
One Story option. An object drawn in plan occurs only at the level where it is drawn. An assignment made in a plan view applies only to the object(s) actually selected. Similarly, a selection made in a plan view applies only to the object(s) actually selected.
Similar Stories option. An object drawn in plan or 3D view will occur at all stories that are designated as similar to it, if it is designated as a master story, or at the master story and all similar stories if it is not a master story but is similar to a master story. Object selection and assignment behave in a manner comparable to drawing; that is, selection of one object will result in objects of the same type in the same location on similar stories to also be selected and, where appropriate, assignments made.
Note: A Master Story cannot be similar to other stories, but other stories can be similar to it.
Note: When objects are drawn and the All Stories option is enabled, objects are drawn at the first story and above, not on the base (or support) level.
All Stories option. An object drawn in plan occurs at all story levels, except the base (or support) level. An assignment made to an object in a plan view also occurs at all story levels, except the base level, when there is an object of the same type in the same plan location as the selected object. When an object is selected in plan view, objects of the same type in the same location at all other story levels, except the base level, also are selected.
As required, change the similarity option in the drop-down list at any time in a plan view. When the active window switches from a plan view to an elevation or three-dimensional view and then back to a plan view, ETABS will retain the similarity option that it last had in the drop-down list for the previous plan view.
See also