OpenType panel overview

Last updated on Sep 11, 2025

Get to know more about the OpenType panel in Illustrator to access advanced typographic features available in supported fonts.

Select Window > Type > OpenType to access the OpenType panel. This panel controls how alternate characters are applied in OpenType fonts. For example, you can specify that you want to use Standard Ligatures for both new and existing text.

OpenType fonts vary in the features they support, so several options in the OpenType panel may not be available for every font. You can view the characters in a font using the Glyphs panel.

The OpenType panel is displayed on the screen showcasing options such as Standard Ligatures, Contextual Alternates, Discretionary Ligatures, and more.
OpenType panel overview

A. Standard Ligatures B. Contextual Alternates C. Discretionary Ligatures D. Swash E. Stylistic Alternates F. Titling Alternates 

The OpenType panel is displayed on the screen showcasing options such as Figure, Position, Ordinals and more.
OpenType panel overview

A. Figure B. Position C. Ordinals D. Fraction E. Stylistic Sets 

Note

Asian OpenType fonts may include additional typographic features.

OpenType panel options

Function

Standard Ligatures

Displays common letter combinations as single, combined glyphs for improved readability.

Contextual Alternates

Modifies glyph shapes based on surrounding characters to ensure smooth visual flow.

Discretionary Ligatures

Applies optional, often more decorative ligatures for enhanced typographic style.

Swash

Adds decorative flourishes or extended strokes to specific characters, typically for stylistic use.

Stylistic Alternates

Offers alternate character designs to provide stylistic variation within the font.

Titling Alternates

Substitutes characters with versions optimized for use in large, uppercase titles.

Figure

Sets the numeral style depending on font support.

Position

Adjusts the vertical alignment and sizing of characters, such as superscripts or subscripts.

Ordinals

Formats letter and number combinations as ordinals.

Fractions

Converts numbers separated by a slash into true typographic fractions.

Stylistic Sets

Applies predefined groups of alternate glyphs, each offering a unique stylistic treatment.