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Entering type at a point


    The horizontal and vertical type tools are used to enter type anywhere in the Illustrator work area, without needing to define a bounding area for the type. Entering type this way, for example, is useful for adding a caption to an illustration.

To enter horizontal or vertical type at a specific point:

  1. Select the type tool  the type tool or the vertical type tool  the vertical type tool . The pointer changes to an I-beam within a dotted box.
  2. The small horizontal line near the bottom of the I-beam marks the position of the type baseline. The baseline is the line on which the type rests.

  3. Click where you want the type to begin.
  4. Important: Be sure not to click an existing object, because doing so converts the object into a container or path for the type. If an existing object is located where you want to enter type, lock or hide the object or enter the type away from the object and reposition the type over the object afterward.

  5. Enter the type you want. Press Enter or Return to begin a new line of type.