Okay, here is the exact answer to your question based on Adobe Illustrator functionalities and incorporating the provided reference.
Cutting open a path in Adobe Illustrator, particularly a closed path, is typically achieved using dedicated tools designed to break a path segment or split it at a specific point. As referenced in resources like a video tutorial discussing "How To Open A Closed Path In Illustrator", this process involves using a specific Tool within the software.
The most common methods involve the Scissors Tool or sometimes the Knife Tool, or even simply deleting points using the Direct Selection Tool.
Understanding Paths: Open vs. Closed
Before cutting, it's helpful to know the difference:
- Closed Path: A continuous path with no distinct start or end point (e.g., a circle, a square).
- Open Path: A path with a defined start and end point that are not connected (e.g., a line segment, a spiral).
Cutting open a closed path transforms it into an open path. Cutting an open path splits it into two or more separate open paths.
Primary Tools for Cutting Paths
Adobe Illustrator provides specific tools in the toolbar for modifying paths by cutting or splitting them.
| Tool | Purpose | Best Used For |
|---|---|---|
| Scissors Tool | Cuts a path at a specific anchor point or along a segment. | Precisely opening a closed path, splitting an open path at defined points. |
| Knife Tool | Cuts objects and paths along a freehand path drawn with the tool. | Splitting shapes or paths with less precision, creating irregular cuts. |
| Direct Selection Tool | Allows selection and manipulation of individual anchor points and segments. | Deleting a segment between two points or deleting anchor points to open a path. |
Using the Scissors Tool
The Scissors Tool is the most precise method for cutting a path at specific locations, making it ideal for opening a closed path or splitting an open one exactly where you need it.
Here’s how to use it:
- Select the Path: Use the Selection Tool (V) to select the path you want to cut.
- Activate the Scissors Tool: Find the Eraser Tool in the Tools panel, click and hold, and select the Scissors Tool (C) from the flyout menu.
- Click to Cut:
- To cut at an anchor point, click directly on the anchor point.
- To cut along a path segment (between two anchor points), click anywhere on the segment.
- Separate the Path: After clicking, the path is now cut at that point (or points, if you clicked in multiple places). Use the Direct Selection Tool (A) to click and drag one of the new end points to visually separate the path and confirm it's cut.
When you use the Scissors Tool on a closed path and click once, it cuts the path into a single open path with two end points at the location you clicked. Clicking in two different spots on a closed path with the Scissors Tool cuts out the segment between those two points, resulting in two separate open paths.
Using the Knife Tool
The Knife Tool is more suitable for making freehand cuts through objects, including paths.
- Select the Object(s): Select the path(s) or objects you want to cut.
- Activate the Knife Tool: Find the Eraser Tool in the Tools panel, click and hold, and select the Knife Tool.
- Draw the Cut: Click and drag the Knife Tool across the path where you want to cut. For a straight cut, hold down Alt (Windows) or Option (macOS) while dragging. For a straight horizontal or vertical cut, hold Shift + Alt (Windows) or Shift + Option (macOS).
- Separate the Parts: The path is now split along the line you drew. Use the Selection Tool (V) to move the resulting pieces.
Deleting Anchor Points or Segments
Another way to "open" a closed path is by using the Direct Selection Tool (A) to select specific anchor points or segments and delete them.
- Select the Path: Use the Selection Tool (V) to select the path.
- Select Points/Segments: Switch to the Direct Selection Tool (A). Click directly on an anchor point or drag a marquee selection around the anchor point(s) you want to delete. Alternatively, click on a segment between two points.
- Delete: Press the Delete or Backspace key. Deleting an anchor point will break the path at that location, opening it. Deleting a segment will also open the path.
In summary, while multiple methods exist, using the Scissors Tool is the most direct and precise way to cut open a path, particularly when aiming to open a closed path at a specific point, fulfilling the action described by the reference.
