| Smooth curve points create curves like the track a roller coaster follows. There are no abrupt changes from one curve to another. To create smooth curves: 1. | Drag the Pen tool where you want to start the curve. Handles extend out from the point. Tip The length and angle of the handle control the curve's height and direction. | 2. | Release the mouse button. Tip You do not see a curve until you create the next point of the path. | 3. | Move the cursor to where you want the next part of the curve. Drag to create the curved segment between the two smooth curve points .
Drag with the Pen tool to create smooth curves. | 4. | Continue to create curved segments by repeating steps 2 and 3 .
A path with a series of curved segments. |
To close a path with a smooth curve: 1. | Move the Pen over the first point. A small circle appears, indicating that you can close the path. | 2. | Drag backwards to close the path .
Dragging backwards closes a path with a smooth curve. |
A corner curve point creates curves with an abrupt change in direction. The path of a bouncing ball illustrates a corner curve. To create a corner curve: 1. | With the Pen tool active, drag to create an anchor point with control handles. | 2. | Without releasing the mouse button, hold the Opt/Alt key and then drag to pivot the second handle .
Hold the Opt/Alt key to pivot the handles, which creates a corner curve. | 3. | Release the mouse button when the second handle is the correct length and direction. |
General Pen Rules As you work with the Pen tool, there are some rules you should follow: Use the fewest number of points to define a path. Too many points add to the size of the file and make it difficult to edit the path later. Try to limit the length of the control handles to one-third the length of the curve. This is sometimes called the One-Third Rule. The One-Third Rule makes it easier to edit and control the shape of curves.
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