Select with the Pen tool where you want to start your first line segment. This creates a corner point.
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Draw paths with the Pen tool
Learn how to use the Pen tool to draw straight segments and curves in Adobe Photoshop.
The Pen tool is one of the most powerful drawing tools in Photoshop. It allows you to create precise vector paths with complete control over curves and straight segments.
Draw straight line segments
Select again where you want the segment to end. Continue selecting to create additional straight segments.
Hold Shift while selecting to constrain a line to 45-degree angles.
Select the starting point to close the path. Press Ctrl + Enter (Windows) or Command + Return (macOS) to leave the path open.
Draw curved segments
Select with the Pen tool where you want to start your curve, then drag to create direction handles that shape the curve.
Position your cursor where you want the curve to end, and drag to create another curve, or just select to end with a corner point.
Hold Alt (Windows) or Option (macOS) and drag a direction handle to adjust a curve while drawing.
Drag the second point in the opposite direction from the first point's direction handle to create an S-curve.
Drag the starting point to close the path with a curve.
Combine straight and curved segments
Draw straight segments with the Pen tool as needed.
Apply any of the following:
- Transition from a straight segment to a curve: Select where the straight segment should end, then drag to create a smooth point with direction handles.
- Transition from a curve to a straight segment: Hold Alt (Windows) or Option (macOS) while selecting to convert a smooth point to a corner point.