Illustrator's "Isolation Mode"
No, this isn't where Illustrator is sent to a corner by itself for a time out! Isolation mode is one of the coolest features of Illustrator. It's been around since Illustrator CS2, but it's been tweaked a bit in each new version.
Simply put, isolation mode lets you "isolate" an object, group, or layer so that you can work on the object, group or layer without fear of accidentally changing the surrounding artwork. It's a great alternative to constantly ungrouping items or repeatedly locking and unlocking objects or layers.
Isolation mode is pretty simple to use. Just double-click on an object or a group with the Selection tool. You'll see the rest of the objects on the page dim, and a breadcrumb navigation path appear at the top of the active window.
Many people don't realize that individual layers or sublayers can be isolated as well. Just select a layer or sublayer in the Layers panel, and choose Enter Isolation Mode from the Layers panel menu.
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9 comments:
Cute graphic!
Illustrator CS 3- though I am finding written everywhere that isolation mode can be activated by double clicking on object, group or layer - I have found this does not work in case of object unless you right click n convert that object first into group.
@Anonymous: You are correct. In Illustrator CS3, you can't isolate a path object, only groups.
how can I turn this iSOLATION MODE off. It keeps poping up when I am not interested?
Vincent London UK
To disable quick access to Isolation Mode via double-clicking, just choose Preferences > General, and deselect the "Double Click To Isolate" option.
THANK YOU for posting how to turn that darn thing off! I guess I'm just use to the old-fashion way of doing things. :o)
Thank you the valuable info. I was also irritated with this "isolation mode" turning on even I don't really need it.
Thank You for telling how to turn it off. It was coming on every single time I selected something, even without double clicking. Very annoying!
You can also exit (and enter) isolation mode by clicking on the upper right arrow on top bar of the layers menu. Just choose from the drop down items. Yep, I agree, it's an annoying feature, but could be useful when you get used to it. So you might not want to turn it off in preferences just yet.
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