ILLUSTRATOR
Shortcuts
Master precise vector graphics with these professional Illustrator shortcuts
Keyboard cheat sheet
Select a shortcut below to locate its keys.
Core shortcuts · 10
View in list ↓An editorial selection to learn recurring tasks first, in the same order as the core list below.
How core shortcuts are selected
These are editorial recommendations, not usage rankings. We prioritize recurring tasks, fewer mouse trips, and combinations that are easy to learn. App-specific actions are labeled.
The same layout at every screen size.
Core shortcuts · 10
V / ASelection Tool / Direct Selection Tool (The basics of vector editing)
CmdShiftOCreate Outlines (Convert fonts to vector shapes)
ShiftMShape Builder Tool (Merge or subtract shapes quickly)
CmdGGroup Objects
Cmd7Make Clipping Mask
CmdDTransform Again (Perfect for repeated duplication)
PPen Tool
CmdOptionBMake Blend
ShiftOArtboard Tool (Resize canvas)
Cmd2 / CmdOption2Lock Object / Unlock All
01 — Selection & Basic Tools
VSelection Tool
ADirect Selection Tool
PPen Tool
TType Tool
MRectangle Tool
LEllipse Tool
RRotate Tool
SScale Tool
IEyedropper
02 — Object Manipulation
CmdGGroup
CmdShiftGUngroup
CmdDTransform Again
Cmd[ / ]Send Backward / Bring Forward
CmdShift[ / ]Send to Back / Bring to Front
ShiftMShape Builder Tool
CmdShiftOCreate Outlines (Type to shapes)
03 — Layout & View
CmdRShow/Hide Rulers
Cmd;Show/Hide Guides
CmdOption;Lock/Unlock Guides
CmdYToggle Outline Mode
Cmd0Fit Artboard in Window
Cmd1Actual Size (100%)
04 — Advanced Features
Cmd7Make Clipping Mask
CmdOption7Release Clipping Mask
ShiftOEdit Artboards
CmdOptionBMake Blend
CmdOptionShiftBRelease Blend