Illustrator Project Notes

These flashcards cover key concepts and tools from Illustrator, helping to prepare for exams or practice.

What are some of the default document presets available when creating a new document in Illustrator?

Examples include Letter, A4, Web-Large, Postcard.

Why is it better to work in RGB color mode in Illustrator?

Because RGB has more colors available than CMYK, and most desktop printers are calibrated to work with RGB.

How do you create a New Document Template in Illustrator?

After setting up the new document, click Create, then go to File > Save As Template.

What is the difference between a New Document Template and a New Document Preset?

New Document Presets are linked directly to Illustrator and show up in the New Document window, while Templates are just files on your computer.

How do you open hidden tools in the Toolbar?

Click the 3-dot menu at the bottom of the toolbar.

What causes the settings in the Options bar to change?

Selecting a different tool from the Toolbar or a different type of object on the artboard.

How do you change the size of a panel from small icon to fully expanded?

Click the small arrows in the top corner.

What is a workspace in Illustrator?

A custom arrangement of panels and tools.

How do you save a custom workspace in Illustrator?

Go to Workspace > New Workspace in the Window menu or Workspace Chooser.

What happens when you double click the Hand tool?

Your view is focused on a single artboard.

What happens when you double click the zoom tool?

Your zoom is reset to 100%.

Which key can you hold to temporarily switch to the Hand tool?

Spacebar.

How do you create a group to contain multiple objects?

Select all the objects, then go to Object > Group.

What is the benefit of converting text into vector outlines when sending an Illustrator document?

The recipient will be able to render the text correctly without needing the font installed.

What happens when you resize a Point type box?

The text stretches and changes size.

What happens when you resize a Paragraph type box?

The text area stretches and changes size.

What does the Shape Builder tool do?

Allows you to create custom shapes by selecting overlapping portions of multiple shapes.

What does it mean that Illustrator is resolution independent?

It creates artwork that does not use pixels; shapes can be enlarged indefinitely without losing quality.

Explain the difference between displaying your document in Preview and Outline modes?

Preview mode shows the full artwork with styles, fills, and effects; Outline mode shows only the structure of the artwork without effects.

What does the Direct Selection tool do?

Selects anchor points individually.

How do you exit Isolation mode in Illustrator?

Click the Back arrow under the Options bar, double click the artboard, or press Escape.

What are three vector file formats?

.svg, .ai, .esp.