In Adobe Illustrator, you typically rotate objects by a specific angle, rather than "rotating an angle" itself. Rotating objects is a fundamental transformation used to change their orientation on the artboard.
To rotate selected objects in Illustrator by a specific numerical angle, you can use the Rotate or Transform Each commands found under the Object menu.
Methods for Rotating Objects
Adobe Illustrator offers straightforward methods to rotate objects precisely using dialogue boxes. The primary approaches involve the Transform menu.
Method 1: Using Object > Transform > Rotate
This method is ideal for rotating one or more objects around a common point.
- Step 1: Select Your Objects
Begin by selecting the object(s) you wish to rotate on your Illustrator canvas using the Selection Tool (V) or Direct Selection Tool (A). - Step 2: Access the Rotate Command
With the object(s) selected, go to the menu bar. Click on Object, then select Transform, and finally choose Rotate.... - Step 3: Enter the Angle
A Rotate dialog box will appear. In the Angle field, enter the specific degree value by which you want to rotate the selected object(s). Positive values rotate counter-clockwise, and negative values rotate clockwise. - Step 4: Apply the Rotation
Click OK to apply the rotation to your selected object(s) around their combined center point. You can also click Preview to see the result before confirming.
Method 2: Using Object > Transform > Transform Each
If you have multiple objects selected and want each object to rotate around its own center point independently, Transform Each is the command to use.
- Step 1: Select Multiple Objects
Select the multiple objects you want to rotate individually using the Selection Tool (V). - Step 2: Access the Transform Each Command
Go to the menu bar and click Object, then select Transform, and choose Transform Each.... - Step 3: Enter the Angle
In the Transform Each dialog box, find the Rotate section. Enter the desired degree value in the Angle field. - Step 4: Apply the Rotation
Ensure Preview is checked if you want to see the individual rotations. Click OK to apply the rotation, with each selected object rotating around its own central axis.
Comparing Rotate and Transform Each
Based on the reference, here's a quick comparison:
| Feature | Object > Transform > Rotate | Object > Transform > Transform Each |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Objects | Single or Multiple | Multiple |
| Rotation Center | Common center of all selected objects | Each object's own center point |
| Primary Use | Rotate selection as a single unit | Rotate multiple objects individually |
By utilizing these methods under the Object > Transform menu, you can precisely rotate objects in Adobe Illustrator by any specified angle, enabling accurate design adjustments and creative layouts.
