Modifying Points

Modifying Points

Learn how to modify points and paths when working with the Pen Tool. 

When to use

Use this anytime you need to add or remove points along a path that you've created with the Pen Tool or adjust their position.

Instructions

Adding and Removing Points Along a Path

• Begin with the mug photo that we traced in the previous lesson.
• Click and hold the Pen Tool in the toolbar and notice the other options that are nested here, specifically the 'Add Anchor Point Tool', 'Delete Anchor Point Tool', and the 'Convert Point Tool'. 
• Begin by selecting the 'Add Anchor Point Tool'.
• Notice that as you hover your cursor over the path that we've created, a small '+' symbol will appear next to the Pen Cursor. 
• If we click anywhere along our existing path, we can now add a point. 
• Doing this will give you a new point of articulation where you can move and manipulate the point along with the handles by clicking and dragging them.
• If there are any areas where you have extra points, you can use the 'Delete Anchor Point Tool' to select the point and remove it.

Using the Direct Selection Tool

• If any of your paths, or individual points need to be adjusted, you can do so using the Direct Selection Tool (A).
• With the Direct Selection Tool (A) selected, click on any of the points or segments along your path and move them around freely to reposition them. 

Using the Convert Point Tool

• Select the Convert Point Tool that is nested with the Pen Tool.
• Click on one of the points along the handle of the mug, and you should see that it changes a smooth curve into a sharper, angled, edge without handles.
• Converting points can be useful anytime you want to convert a smooth line into a corner.

Hints & tips

• The Add Anchor Point, Delete Anchor Point, and Convert Point Tools do not have keyboard shortcuts as they are features of the Pen Tool that be used with any of the three Pen types.
• If you want to modify the positioning of any of your points or segments, you can do so with the Direct Selection Tool (A).
• To convert a smooth path into a corner, use the Convert Point Tool.