GMetrix Illustrator: Vector Drawing Tools Flashcards

When using the Curvature tool, how do you create a corner point instead of a smooth curve point?

Answer: Double-click

Double-clicking with the Curvature tool creates a corner point, while a single click creates a smooth curve point.

Which vector drawing tool automatically closes a path when you click near the starting anchor point?

Answer: Both Pen and Pencil tools

Both the Pen and Pencil tools display a small circle next to the cursor when near the starting point, indicating the path will close on click.

The Shaper tool in Illustrator is primarily used to:

Answer: Draw and combine geometric shapes with freehand gestures

The Shaper tool recognizes freehand gesture drawings and converts them to clean geometric shapes, and can also combine/subtract overlapping shapes.

What does the 'Edit Selected Paths' option in the Pencil Tool Options allow you to do?

Answer: Redraw a selected path by drawing over it with the Pencil tool

When enabled, drawing over a selected path with the Pencil tool redraws that portion of the path rather than creating a new one.

When drawing with the Pen tool, holding Alt (Option) while clicking a smooth anchor point does what?

Answer: Converts it to a corner point by removing one direction handle

Alt/Option-clicking a smooth point with the Pen tool converts it to a cusp by retracting one direction handle.

Which of the following correctly describes the function of the Scissors tool?

Answer: Splits a path at a clicked anchor point or segment

The Scissors tool splits an open or closed path at the location you click, creating two separate open paths.

In the context of the Pen tool, what is a 'direction handle' (also called a control handle)?

Answer: The line and endpoint that controls the curve of a segment

Direction handles are the lines and circular endpoints extending from anchor points that control the curvature and direction of adjacent path segments.