Delete lines by clicking on them

[michaels39454337]

I often import CAD images...which include tons of extra lines that I'd like to delete.

I'd like to have a way to automagically delete each item as I click on it (as I select the object, it gets deleted). I remember the old autocad days when I could just pick objects and they would be removed. Looking for something similar in AI.

Otherwise, I have to go 'click-delete-click-delete' about a thousand times. Using the eraser and shift key are not really what I'm looking for.

Any ideas?

Thanks, Mike

[Kurt Gold]

Which version of Illustrator are you using?

[michaels39454337]

AI CC, 64-bit, 2017.0.2 release

[Kurt Gold]

Select a bunch of lines. Then you can take the Shape Builder tool and Alt click on the lines or Alt drag across several lines to delete the unwanted paths.

[Ton Frederiks · Accepted solution]

Keep holding down the Delete key and click with the Selection tool on the line segments, works for me.

[michaels39454337]

Thanks 'Ton Frederiks', that solution is pretty simple and seems to work. I just need to find a small rock or something to hold down the delete key for me...then it will be perfect for what I need.

[Ton Frederiks]

Yes Michael, while I was giving the answer I was exactly thinking about that, a clamp or clip 🙂

[DougKatz]

All these years and never knew about this convenience, Ton. Thanks for that.