Select the Type tool from the Tools panel.
Last updated on
Sep 11, 2025
Learn how to add text to vector artworks in Illustrator.
Enter text at a point
Point type is a horizontal or vertical line of text that begins where you select and expand as you enter characters. Each line of text is independent. The line expands or shrinks as you enter or delete the text but doesn’t wrap to the following line.
Select anywhere on the artboard to set a point and begin entering the text.
Tip
Press Enter (Windows) or Return (Mac) to begin a new line of text within the same type object.
Select the type object using the Selection tool.
Select Window > Type > Character for adjusting the font style, font size, leading, and more settings.
Enter text in an area
Area type (also called paragraph type) uses the boundaries of an object to control the flow of characters, either horizontally or vertically. When the text reaches the border, it automatically wraps to fit inside the defined area.
Select the Polygon tool to draw the shape.
Select the Area Type tool from the Tools panel.
Select once inside the shape when the cursor changes to an I-beam with a dotted circle to convert it into an area type text container.
Note
The shape will be filled with placeholder text.
Enter or paste the text to replace the placeholder text inside the area.
Enter text on a path
You can easily enter text on any path or a shape outline.
Select the Polygon tool from the Tools panel to draw the shape.
Note
Alternatively, use the Pen tool or other Shape tools to draw a custom path or shape.
Select the Type on a Path tool from the Tools panel.
Select once at the beginning of the path or at any point on the shape border.
Enter the text you want to appear along the path or shape outline.
Delete empty type objects from the artwork
Removing unused type objects helps reduce file size, making the artwork easier to export or print.
Select Object > Path > Clean Up.
In the Clean Up dialog box, select the Empty Text Paths checkbox.
Select OK.
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