How to Erase Content Within a Selected Area Using the Eraser Tool in Illustrator

To quickly erase everything contained within a specific area using the Eraser tool in Adobe Illustrator, you can utilize a simple key modifier while dragging. This technique allows you to define a rectangular area where all intersecting paths will be erased.

Erasing with the Eraser Tool and a Selection Area

The standard use of the Eraser tool involves dragging it across objects to erase segments. However, by holding down the Alt key (or Option on macOS) while dragging, you activate a mode that lets you draw a temporary rectangular marquee selection. Anything the marquee covers will be erased upon releasing the mouse button.

Step-by-Step Guide to Erasing with a Selection Area

Follow these steps to erase content using a drawn selection area with the Eraser tool, based on the provided reference:

1. Select the Eraser Tool:
   • Click the Eraser tool icon in the toolbox. This icon typically looks like a pink eraser and is usually located on the left side of the Illustrator window. You can also select it by pressing Shift + E on your keyboard.
2. Activate Area Selection Mode:
   • Hold down the ALT key (or Option on macOS) on your keyboard. Keep this key held down for the next step.
3. Draw the Selection Area:
   • With the ALT key held, click and drag the left mouse button (or trackpad) over the artwork. As you drag, you will see a rectangular marquee appear. This marquee defines the area you want to erase.
4. Release to Erase:
   • Release the mouse button. Everything within the defined rectangular selection area that intersects with editable objects will be erased.

What This Method Does

Using the Eraser tool in conjunction with the ALT key allows you to create a rectangular boundary. Once you release the mouse, Illustrator erases all parts of objects that fall inside this boundary. This is an efficient way to clear large sections or create precise cutouts based on a rectangular shape without having to carefully trace paths.