Drawing Curves with the Pen Tool
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Objective
I can use the Pen Tool in Adobe Illustrator to create shapes with curved lines and minimal anchor points.
Part 1 of 4
Warm-up video
Bring Your Own Laptop · 11:31
We don't generate video — this one is by Bring Your Own Laptop on YouTube. The practice questions and exit ticket below were drafted by AI for this objective, and every question is editable in the teacher guide.
Part 2 of 4
Key concepts
3 concepts
- 1
To make anchor points easier to see, especially on smaller displays, go to Edit > General > Selection and Anchor Display and increase the anchor point size.
- 2
Instead of placing anchor points in the middle of curves, place them at corner points and drag handles to create the curve with fewer points.
- 3
While drawing with the Pen Tool, hold the Ctrl key to temporarily switch to the Direct Selection Tool and adjust anchor points, or hold the Alt key to break the handles and change the curve.
Part 3 of 4
Practice
3 questions
In Adobe Illustrator, what is the function of holding down the Option (Mac) or Alt (PC) key while using the Pen Tool?
Explain the purpose of using the Command (Mac) or Control (PC) key while the Pen Tool is active, and how it can improve your workflow.
Part 4 of 4
Exit ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Using the Pen Tool in Adobe Illustrator, create a curved line with only two anchor points. Describe the steps you took, including how you manipulated the handles to achieve the curve.”
Sample answer included in the free materials
Get the materials
Teacher guide, student handout, and slides — free, in Google Docs format
Teacher Guide
Complete lesson plan with answer keys and alternate activities
Student Handout
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