• All tools require that you set an origin where the transformation starts. The origin can be thought of as an "anchor point" for the transformation.
• After you select a path, then a transformation tool, note that the cursor changes to a crosshair. This is your signal to set an origin for the transformation.
• Click at the point to start the transformation.
• A good way to illustrate* setting the origin is with the Rotate tool.
• To rotate an object around its center, set the origin in the center of the object.
• To rotate the object around some other center, set the origin at the point you want your object rotated around.
• Setting origins for other transformation tools works the same way.