How Do I Convert Text to a Shape Layer in Illustrator?

To convert text to a shape layer (outlines) in Adobe Illustrator, follow these steps:

1. Create or Open Your Document: Begin by creating a new Illustrator document or opening an existing project file.
2. Type Your Text: Use the Type Tool (T) to add text to your artboard. Choose your desired font, size, and other text properties.
3. Select the Text: Use the Selection Tool (V) to select the text object(s) you want to convert to outlines.
4. Create Outlines: Go to the "Type" menu at the top of the screen and choose "Create Outlines." Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut:
   • Windows: Shift + Ctrl + O
   • macOS: Shift + Cmd + O

Once you've created outlines, your text is no longer editable as text. It is now a collection of vector shapes that you can manipulate like any other shape in Illustrator (e.g., changing the fill, stroke, anchor points, etc.).