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Participant
June 6, 2019
Answered

How do you change the default type tool

  • June 6, 2019
  • 3 replies
  • 5828 views

My current default type tool is set to the Area Type tool instead of the standard T type tool. How do I change this? Windows 10, Adobe 2019.

    This topic has been closed for replies.
    Correct answer Bill Silbert

    With CC 2019 Illustrator you can (sometimes accidentally) edit the tool bar. To reset your tools to default with the standard type tool first on the type tool list click on the three dots at the bottom of the tool bar and then choose reset from the pull-down menu as shown below.

    For more information about this feature see Illustrator CC 2019 (23) : Customizable toolbars tutorial - YouTube .

    3 replies

    Harshika Verma
    Community Manager
    Community Manager
    April 24, 2026

    Hi everyone,
     

    If you’re looking to get started with text in Adobe Illustrator, it’s important to understand the three essential tools that help you work with typography more effectively: the Type Tool, Area Type Tool, and Touch Type Tool.

    Each of these tools serves a different purpose, from adding simple text, to fitting text within shapes, to adjusting individual characters with precision. Knowing when and how to use each one can give you much greater control over your designs and improve your overall workflow.
     



    Feel free to watch and explore the video how it can help improve your workflow. If you have any questions or feedback, drop them in the video comments. We’d love to hear your thoughts. 

    Thanks,

    Harshika

    Mike_Gondek10189183
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    June 6, 2019

    Use the shortcut  "T" on your keyboard while you are in any tool except text editing mode.

    Bill Silbert
    Community Expert
    Bill SilbertCommunity ExpertCorrect answer
    Community Expert
    June 6, 2019

    With CC 2019 Illustrator you can (sometimes accidentally) edit the tool bar. To reset your tools to default with the standard type tool first on the type tool list click on the three dots at the bottom of the tool bar and then choose reset from the pull-down menu as shown below.

    For more information about this feature see Illustrator CC 2019 (23) : Customizable toolbars tutorial - YouTube .

    Participant
    June 6, 2019

    This worked perfectly. THANK YOU!

    Bill Silbert
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    June 6, 2019

    Happy to help.