Reshape path segments

Last updated on Oct 9, 2026

Learn how to use selection and pen tools to adjust anchor points, direction lines, and segment curves for precise path control.

Reshaping path segments gives you precise control over path shapes for selections, vector masks, and illustrations.

These techniques apply to existing paths and require the Direct Selection tool or Pen tool. Moving an anchor point affects both connected segments. When Constrain Path Dragging is disabled in the options bar, adjusting a segment also reshapes related segments for more intuitive transformations. Enable this option to edit only the segments between selected anchor points.

You can temporarily activate the Direct Selection tool while drawing with the Pen tool by pressing Ctrl (Windows) or Command (macOS).

Tip

In any procedure below, Shift-drag to constrain movement to 45° increments.

Practice these path editing techniques directly in Photoshop.

Move straight segments

Using the Direct Selection tool and select the segment you want to move.

Drag the segment to its new position.

Adjust straight segment length or angle

Select the Direct Selection tool and choose an anchor point on the segment.

Drag the anchor point to the desired position. Shift-drag to constrain movement to 45° increments.

Adjust curved segment position or shape

Using the Direct Selection tool, select the curved segment or an anchor point at either end. Direction lines appear if present.

To reposition the segment, drag it to a new location. Shift-drag to constrain movement to 45° increments.

To reshape the curve, drag the anchor point or direction point. Shift-drag to constrain movement to 45° increments. Info:

Note

Moving a direction line on a smooth point adjusts curves on both sides simultaneously. On a corner point, only the curve on the same side as the direction line changes.

Delete a segment

If creating an opening in a closed path, first select the Add Anchor Point tool and add two points where you want the opening.

Select the Direct Selection tool and choose the segment to delete.

Press Backspace (Windows) or Delete (macOS). Pressing again erases the rest of the path.

Remove direction lines from an anchor point

Select the Convert Point tool and click the anchor point. The smooth point converts to a corner point without direction lines.

Nudge anchor points or segments

Using the Direct Selection tool, select the anchor point or path segment

Press any arrow key to move 1 pixel in that direction. Hold Shift while pressing an arrow key to move 10 pixels.

Extend an open path

Select the Pen tool and position the pointer over the endpoint of the open path until the pointer changes.

Select the endpoint.

To create a corner point, position the Pen tool where the new segment should end and select. To create a smooth point, position the tool and drag. Info:

Note

When extending a path that ends at a smooth point, the existing direction line curves the new segment.

Connect two open paths

Select the Pen tool and position the pointer over an endpoint of one path until the pointer changes.

Select the endpoint.

Position the Pen tool over the endpoint of the other path. When a small merge icon appears next to the pointer, select to connect the paths.

Create stunning images with Photoshop
Edit, retouch, and transform photos with the industry-leading creative tools you know and love.

Open the app

Draw rectangles with the Rectangle tool

Manage path components in Photoshop

Learn

Learn with step-by-step video tutorials and hands-on guidance right in the app.

Community

Join discussions, find answers, learn from experts, and share your knowledge.

Adobe Home

Access your favorite Creative Cloud apps, services, file management, and more.