Mode
Last updated on
Oct 27, 2025
Explore the complete range of Pen tool settings and options available in Adobe Photoshop to create precise paths, curves, and shapes for your design projects.
The Pen tool in Photoshop provides precise control for creating paths, shapes, and selections. Understanding the various Pen tool settings helps you work more efficiently and achieve better results in your design projects.
When you select any Pen tool, the Options bar (Window > Options) displays these important settings:
Drawing modes
|
|
Description |
|
Shape |
Creates a shape layer with a vector mask |
|
Path |
Creates a work path that can be stroked or filled later |
|
Pixels |
Creates a rasterized shape directly on the current layer |
Auto Add/Delete
When enabled, this option allows you to:
- Add anchor points by selecting a path segment.
- Delete anchor points by selecting them.
- Prevent changing the shape of the path when selecting an anchor point.
Rubber Band
When turned on, this option displays a preview of path segments as you move the pointer, before selecting to create the next anchor point. This helps visualize the path you're creating. Select the Set additional pen and path options icon to select Rubber Band.
Path creation settings
Anchor point types
|
Point Type |
How to Create |
Behavior |
|
Corner point |
Select without dragging |
Creates sharp corners with straight segments |
|
Smooth point |
Select and drag |
Creates curved segments with direction handles |
|
Combination point |
Varies based on adjacent points |
Can connect curved and straight segments |
Direction handles
Direction handles control the curve's shape:
- Longer handles create flatter curves
- Shorter handles create sharper curves
- Asymmetrical handles create uneven curves
- Handles pointing in opposite directions create S-curves
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