How do you duplicate transform in Illustrator?

You can duplicate a transformation in Adobe Illustrator by using the "Transform Again" feature, most easily accessed with the shortcut Command/Ctrl + D. Here's a breakdown of how to use this powerful tool:

Steps to Duplicate a Transformation:

1. Select the Object: Choose the object you want to transform and duplicate.

2. Apply the Initial Transformation: Apply any transformation using one of the following methods:

   • Object > Transform > Move...: This is a common method for precise movements. Set the desired horizontal and vertical distance and angle (if needed) in the dialog box.
   • Object > Transform > Rotate...: Rotate the object by a specific angle.
   • Object > Transform > Scale...: Scale the object proportionally or non-proportionally.
   • Object > Transform > Reflect...: Reflect the object across an axis.
   • Free Transform Tool (E): Manually transform the object using the bounding box.

3. Click "Copy" in the Dialog Box (if applicable): If you're using Object > Transform > Move..., or other specific Transform options, remember to click the "Copy" button instead of "OK" to create a duplicate with the transformation. This step is crucial for the duplicate transform to work.

4. Duplicate the Transformation (Transform Again): Press Command + D (macOS) or Ctrl + D (Windows). This will repeat the last transformation you performed, creating another duplicated object with the same transformation applied relative to the previous object. Keep pressing the shortcut to create a series of duplicates.

Example: Creating a Circle Pattern

1. Create a circle.
2. Select the circle.
3. Go to Object > Transform > Rotate...
4. Enter an angle in the Rotate dialog box (e.g., 30 degrees).
5. Click "Copy" (this is key!).
6. Press Command/Ctrl + D repeatedly. This will create a series of circles rotated 30 degrees from the previous one, forming a circular pattern.

Important Considerations:

• The Key is "Copy": Make sure to click the "Copy" button in the transform dialog box if you are performing a transform through the menu (e.g. Object > Transform > Move...) the first time. If you click "OK" instead of "Copy," the transform will be applied to the original object, but there will be no duplicate for "Transform Again" to repeat.
• Last Transformation: "Transform Again" repeats the very last transformation. If you perform another action between the initial transformation and pressing Command/Ctrl + D, the shortcut will repeat that action instead.
• Experiment: Practice with different transformation types (move, rotate, scale, reflect) to get a feel for how "Transform Again" can be used to create complex designs quickly.

By using the Transform Again command in Illustrator, you can efficiently create multiple transformed copies of an object with consistent and precise transformations. Remember to use the "Copy" option when initially transforming your object and keep the Command/Ctrl + D shortcut handy!