What are some tips and tricks for using the pen tool to draw smooth curves and shapes in Photoshop?

2 Use keyboard shortcuts

Using keyboard shortcuts can significantly improve your workflow and make your drawing more precise and efficient. For instance, you can press Ctrl/Cmd + Z to undo the last point or segment you drew, Ctrl/Cmd + Alt/Option + Z to undo multiple steps, Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + Z to redo the last step, Alt/Option to switch to the convert point tool, Shift to constrain the angle of the segments to 0, 45, or 90 degrees, Spacebar to move the position of the anchor point or handle before releasing the mouse button, Backspace/Delete to delete the last point or segment you drew, and Esc to cancel the current path and start a new one.

3 Draw from big to small

A common mistake that beginners make when using the pen tool is to draw too many small segments and points, which can result in jagged and uneven curves and shapes. A better approach is to draw from big to small, meaning that you should start with the largest and most general shape of your object, and then refine and adjust it with smaller and more detailed segments and points. This way, you can create smoother and more natural curves and shapes, and avoid unnecessary and messy points.

4 Use guides and grids

Another way to improve your accuracy and consistency when using the pen tool is to use guides and grids. Guides and grids are visual aids that help you align and position your points and segments, and measure the distance and angle of your curves and shapes. You can show or hide guides and grids from the View menu, or by pressing Ctrl/Cmd + R for rulers, Ctrl/Cmd + ; for guides, and Ctrl/Cmd + ' for grids. You can also customize the color, style, and spacing of guides and grids from the Preferences menu.

5 Practice and experiment

The best way to master the pen tool is to practice and experiment with different types of curves and shapes, and different settings and options. You can find many tutorials and exercises online that will teach you how to use the pen tool for various purposes, such as drawing logos, icons, illustrations, or text. You can also try to recreate some existing images or designs with the pen tool, or create your own original ones. The more you practice and experiment, the more confident and skilled you will become with the pen tool.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?