Precise Shapes with the Pen ToolWhen we're creating a frame or path which isn't a simple shape, we always use the Pen tool (press P; see Figure 12-5), not the freeform tools. The reason: Despite the freeform controls we just told you about, it's almost impossible to create a precise path with those tools. InDesign uses a Pen tool and other path editing tools which are similar to those in XPress, and virtually identical to those in Illustrator or Photoshop. If you've learned to use the Pen tool in another Adobe product, you're home free! This section doesn't pretend to be a complete course in making precise paths (Real World InDesign 2 covers the drawing tools in more detail). Instead we'll focus here on how InDesign's path creation tools are similar to and different from those of XPress. Figure 12-5. The Pen tool and associated tools![]() First, a little terminology review when you're working with precise paths (see Figure 12-6): The tiny squares which control the shape of a curve are called anchor points . InDesign uses smooth points and corner points like QuarkXPress, but it doesn't have symmetrical points (they exist in InDesign, but there's no special control to create them automatically like there is in XPress). The handles that extend out from anchor points are called control handles . Smooth points have two handles which move in unison around an anchor point. Corner points have either one, two, or no control handles, and their handles move independently of each other. The lines which connect the anchor points are called segments , which can be either curved or straight. Figure 12-6. Curve terminology![]() Similarities and DifferencesWhile QuarkXPress uses different tools to create Bézier lines, text boxes, etc., InDesign has only one Pen tool. Creating most paths with the Pen tool works the same as in XPress:
As in QuarkXPress, it's a good idea in InDesign to watch how the cursor changes when you're working with the Pen tool. Table 12-1 shows several different Pen cursors, most of which are the same as in Illustrator and Photoshop.
Corner Point TipHere's one InDesign Pen technique which can be a big time saver: making corner points as you're drawing (see Figure 12-7). Figure 12-7. Creating a corner point when drawing![]() |