Core_Computer Studies : Grouping Objects in Illustrator

It is often handy to be able to combine several objects together so that you can treat them in the same way in other words you can treat them as the same unit. For instance you may want to scale a selection of objects together. You can then move or transform a number of grouped objects without affecting their individual positions or attributes. Also group objects when you need to select them together repeatedly as you work.

To group or ungroup objects:

Select the objects to be grouped or ungrouped.

Selecting part of an object and grouping will group the entire object.

Choose either Object > Group or Object > Ungroup.

Using Average and Join in the Object Path Menu

The Average function places two end points in the same location.

Use the direct-selection tool to select two or more anchor points.

Go to Object > Path > Average.

The dialog box asks if you want to Average along both axes, or the horizontal (x) axis only, or the vertical (y) axis only, decide which you want to do and click OK.

Joining endpoints

The Join command in the Object Path Menu connects the endpoints of paths.

If you join two endpoints which are on top of each other, they will be replaced with a single anchor point. If you join two endpoints that are not exactly on top of each other a path is drawn between the two points.

To join two endpoints:

Use the direct-selection tool to select the endpoints. If the endpoints are on top of each other, drag across both endpoints to select them.

Go to Object > Path > Join. A line is drawn, which joins the two endpoints.

If the endpoints are not on top of each other, select the Corner option (the default) or the Smooth option to specify the type of join you want.

Click OK.

These notes are written for students who undertake the Core Computer course at School of Art, Australian National University. Students of the course should feel free to contact any member of staff with comments questions and general suggestions..

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