Polygon Tool
Draw multi-sided polygons with a configurable number of sides, from triangles to dodecagons.
Shortcut: UBeginner4 min readQuick Reference
Polygon Tool
Adobe PhotoshopLeft toolbar — Crop, Type, Shape, Navigation groups
Best Used For
- ▸Navigate and view documents more efficiently
- ▸Add text, shapes, and annotations to designs
- ▸Set up document layout and measurement guides
Key Settings
The Polygon Tool creates vector shapes with any number of sides (3–100). By default it creates pentagons (5 sides), but you can adjust the side count to create triangles, hexagons, stars, or any geometric polygon needed for your design.
This tool is invaluable for creating geometric designs, badges, logos, buttons, and decorative elements. With options for star shapes and smooth corners, it is much more versatile than its name suggests.
Where to Find It
The Polygon Tool is grouped with the other shape tools in the toolbar. Click and hold the Rectangle Tool icon, then select Polygon Tool from the flyout. Press Shift+U to cycle through the shape tools.
How to Use
- Set number of sides: In the Options bar, enter the number of sides (e.g., 5 for a pentagon, 6 for a hexagon, 3 for a triangle).
- Draw the polygon: Click and drag on the canvas. The polygon is drawn from its center outward.
- Rotate while drawing: Hold Shift to constrain the rotation to 45-degree increments.
- Create a star: Click the gear icon in the Options bar and check Star. Adjust Indent Sides By to control the star's sharpness.
- Smooth corners: Check Smooth Corners or Smooth Indents in the gear menu for rounded polygon or star shapes.
Pro Tips
- To create a perfect triangle, set Sides to 3 and hold Shift while drawing to align it vertically.
- Use the Star option with a high Indent value (80–99%) to create sharp, thin star shapes for burst graphics or sparkle effects.
- After drawing, you can still change the number of sides in the Properties panel — the shape updates dynamically.