Fast & Easy Way Of Transforming A Vector Shape Accurately

Transform command in Illustrator CS makes it easy for you to to transform a vector shape accurately the fast and easy way. It is very useful in technical drawing and in creating FA for output.

Transforming Size
I've made a red square and as you can see on the Info Palette (1), the size is 3 cm x 3 cm. Same shown on the Transform Palette (2). I've also marked the square borders with guide lines so it'll be easier for you guys to see the changes.



Now, I want to add another 0.75 cm to scale from the centre point.
(1) Select the reference point of transformation, the centre.
(2) Click on the constrain width and height proportions icon to lock it.
(3) Change either the width or height value to 3.75 cm and click Enter.
Can you see the difference (a bigger square and the new transformed size on the Info Palette).






Let say that I want to add another 0.75 cm but this time only to right side of the screen.
(1) Select the reference point of transformation, the center left.
(2) Make sure the constrain width and height proportions icon is not lock.
(3) Change the width value to 4.5 cm and click Enter.






Rotating Shape
Now, I want to rotate it 45 degrees from the centre bottom.
(1)Select the reference point of transformation, the center bottom.
(2) Key in the angle of rotation and click Enter.






Easy, isn't. Same goes with shear (next to rotate). Try experimenting these features and have fun doing it.