2. Before You Draw

This chapter contains an overview of the workspace you’ll be using, plus an explanation of many of the basic features and tools that are part of almost every project: how to create a new document, understanding artboards, using guides, how to switch screen modes, and more. Some of this information won’t quite make sense to you until you start working on a project, but we want you to know it exists and where to find it when you need it.

Illustrator often provides several different ways to do a certain task, even such a basic one as creating a new document. The best method often depends on the task at hand or just a personal preference for how you like to work. We don’t try to describe all of the various options in every case, so be aware that as you become more familiar with Illustrator, you may discover alternative techniques that you prefer. It’s your job to explore!