Select the Anchor Point tool.
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Refine paths in Illustrator using Anchor Point and Smooth tools
Last updated on
11 May 2026
Learn how to use the Anchor Point and Smooth tools in Illustrator to adjust corners, refine jagged paths, and create flowing curves.
You can refine paths in Illustrator using the Anchor Point and Smooth tools. Use the Anchor Point tool to convert or adjust anchor points, such as changing a corner into a curve. Use the Smooth tool to reduce irregularities in a path, such as smoothing rough or uneven curves.
Learn how to use the Anchor Point tool, and Smooth tool in Adobe Illustrator, and understand the key differences between them.
Press Option (macOS) or Alt (Windows), then drag a handle to link it with the opposite one and create a smooth anchor point.
Adjust anchor points
Select a path using the Selection tool.
Select the Anchor Point tool.
Click an anchor point to convert it, and then drag to adjust the direction handles.
Select a path using the Selection tool.
Select the Smooth tool.
Drag along the path segment until it’s as smooth as you need. Repeat to refine the curve.
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