Selecting filled objects


    The Object Selection by Path Only option in the General Preferences dialog box determines whether you can select a filled object in Preview view by clicking anywhere within the object's area with the Selection or Direct Selection tools, or whether you must click a path segment or anchor point with these tools. By default, this option is off. In some cases, you may want to turn the option on--for example, when you work with overlapping filled objects and you want to easily select underlying objects.

    With Selection Restricted To Paths deselected, dragging with the Direct Selection tool selects points and segments within marquee.
    With Object Selection by Path Only selected, dragging with the  Direct Selection tool selects points and segments within marquee.
    With Selection Restricted To Paths selected, clicking inside the object and dragging selects and moves an object.
    With Object Selection by Path Only deselected, clicking inside the object and dragging selects and moves an object.

To use the Selection Restricted To Paths option:

  1. Choose Edit > Preferences > General (Windows) or Illustrator > Preferences > General (Mac OS).
  2. Select or deselect the Object Selection by Path Only option, and click OK.