Simplifying Vector Paths

The Reduce Points command lets you simplify vector paths by reducing the number of anchor points in the path.

Simplifying is a good practice when paths you import or create have a very high number of anchor points. These paths can cause slow printing or printer errors, especially when memory is limited. If you have problems printing a complex vector path, try simplifying it.

Use the Reduce Points command when one vector object is in Path Edit mode, or when one or more vector objects are selected.

Reduce Points works with objects created with the Curve, Auto Curve, Freehand, Smooth Polygon, and Polygon tools. You can apply it to objects created with other tools if you use the Path | Convert to Paths command to convert the objects to vector paths.

Reduce Points is not available when specialized vector objects (Concentric Circles, Smart Shapes, Multigons, and similar objects) are selected or in Edit mode. These objects must be converted to paths to simplify them.

To Use the Reduce Points Command:

1. Select one or more vector objects, or place one object in Path Edit mode (select it and choose Object | Edit). In Edit mode, you can select three or more anchor points and apply Reduce Points.
2. Choose Path | Reduce Points.
3. In the dialog box, drag the slider to set the relative number of anchor points to use for the path.
   • Loose: Leaves fewer points in the path by tracing the original path more smoothly.
   • Tight: Removes fewer points by tracing the original more closely. When more points are removed, the change in the path can be greater.
4. Click OK to modify the path.