Illustrator

Enter values in panels and dialog boxes

You enter values using the same methods in all panels and dialog boxes. You can also perform simple math in any box that accepts numeric values. For example, if you want to move a selected object 3 units to the right using the current measurement units, you don’t have to work out the new horizontal position—simply type +3 after the current value in the Transform panel.

Enter a value in a panel or dialog box

  Do any of the following:

  • Type a value in the box, and press Enter or Return.

  • Drag the slider.

  • Drag the dial.

  • Click the arrow buttons in the panel to increase or decrease the value.

  • Click in the box and then use the Up Arrow key and Down Arrow key on the keyboard to increase or decrease the value. Hold down Shift and click an arrow key to magnify the increase rate or decrease rate.

  • Select a value from the menu associated with the box.

    Ways to enter values

    A.
    Arrow buttons

    B.
    Text box

    C.
    Menu arrow

    D.
    Slider

    E.
    Dial

Calculate values in a panel or dialog box

  1. In a text box that accepts numerical values, do one of the following:

    • To replace the entire current value with a mathematical expression, select the entire current value.

    • To use the current value as part of a mathematical expression, click before or after the current value.

  2. Type a simple mathematical expression using a single mathematical operator, such as + (plus), - (minus), x (multiplication), / (division), or % (percent).

    For example, 0p0 + 3 or 5mm + 4. Similarly, 3cm * 50% equals 3 centimeters multiplied by 50%, or 1.50 cm, and 50pt + 25% equals 50 points plus 25% of 50 points, or 62.5 points.

  3. Press Enter or Return to apply the calculation.