Adding anchor points in Adobe Illustrator allows you to modify the shape and curvature of paths more precisely. You can easily add them using the Pen Tool or the dedicated Add Anchor Point Tool.
Using the Pen Tool
Based on the provided reference, a common way to add anchor points is by using the versatile Pen Tool. Here's the step-by-step process:
- Select the Path: Begin by selecting the path or shape you wish to modify. You can use the Selection Tool (V) or Direct Selection Tool (A) for this.
- Select the Pen Tool: Choose the Pen Tool (P) from the toolbar. When you hover the Pen Tool cursor over a path, it often changes appearance depending on what you can do.
- Click to Add: With the Pen Tool selected, hover the cursor directly over the segment of the path where you want to add a new anchor point. The Pen Tool cursor will display a small plus sign (+) when positioned correctly on a path, indicating that clicking will add an anchor point. Click on the path with the plus sign to add new Anchor Points.
This new anchor point will appear on the path, and you can then use the Direct Selection Tool (A) to move it or adjust its handles (if it's a curve point) to reshape the path.
Alternative Method: The Add Anchor Point Tool
Illustrator also provides a dedicated tool specifically for this purpose, which works very similarly:
- Select the Add Anchor Point Tool (+). This tool is usually grouped with the Pen Tool in the toolbar; you might need to click and hold the Pen Tool icon to reveal it.
- Simply click directly on any path segment where you want to insert a new anchor point.
Both methods achieve the same result of adding a point along an existing path.
Adding vs. Removing Anchor Points
The Pen Tool is quite flexible. As the reference mentions, it can also remove points. Here's a quick comparison:
| Action | Tool Appearance | How to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Add Point | Pen Tool with + | Click directly on a path segment. |
| Remove Point | Pen Tool with - | Click directly on an existing anchor point. |
| Add (Dedicated) | Add Anchor Point Tool (+) | Click directly on a path segment. |
| Remove (Dedicated) | Delete Anchor Point Tool (-) | Click directly on an existing anchor point. |
You can find the Delete Anchor Point Tool (-) grouped with the Pen Tool as well.
Adding anchor points gives you finer control over the curves and segments of your vector graphics, allowing for more complex designs and adjustments.
