Tips for Success

• Mastering keyboard shortcuts can drastically speed up your workflow;
• Utilize the Shape Builder Tool as much as you can;
• Make unique strokes by creating your own brushes;
• Master the Pen Tool, as all Adobe programs use this tool; keep practicing to get more comfortable with anchor points and curves;
• Keep your artwork organized by creating multiple layers; you can easily hide, lock, or rearrange elements using the Layers Panel;
• Add multiple strokes, fills, and effects to the same object without duplicating it in the Appearance Panel;
• Go to Window > Appearance to control stroke widths, add fills, or apply effects like shadows and gradients all in one place;
• Create symbols for repeated elements (like logos or icons) to save time;
• If you're working on designs for the web, use Snap to Pixel (View > Snap to Pixel) to ensure clean, crisp edges on your artwork when exporting to PNG or SVG;
• Work on multiple designs in one document by using artboards;
• Use Expand Appearance to turn complex effects into editable vector shapes; after expanding, simplify your artwork to reduce unnecessary anchor points with Object > Path > Simplify;
• When exporting for the web, optimize your artwork by exporting as SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics);
• Customize your panel layout and tool arrangement for efficiency, then save it as a new workspace for quick access.

Homework

Create images using the video above. Use a Final Practice File to create the man's face.