What is illustrator?

Adobe Illustrator is a computer program used to create and edit vector graphics. Unlike photos that are made of tiny dots (pixels), vector graphics are built from mathematical paths, which means they can be resized without losing quality. Illustrator is part of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite and is the industry‑standard tool for drawing logos, icons, illustrations, typography, and other scalable artwork.

Let's break it down

  • Vector vs. raster: Vector images are made of points, lines, and curves defined by equations; raster images are made of pixels.
  • Artboards: Think of them as separate canvases within one file where you can design multiple versions of a piece.
  • Tools: Pen tool (draw precise paths), shape tools (rectangles, circles), brush tool (hand‑drawn strokes), and type tool (add text).
  • Layers & groups: Organize parts of your design so you can edit them independently.
  • Swatches & symbols: Save colors, gradients, and reusable objects for consistency across projects.

Why does it matter?

Because vector graphics stay sharp at any size, they’re perfect for branding and print where a logo might appear on a business card or a billboard. Illustrator also offers precise control over shapes and typography, making it easier to create clean, professional‑looking designs that other programs can’t match.

Where is it used?

  • Logo and brand identity design
  • Icon sets for apps and websites
  • Illustrations for books, magazines, and comics
  • Packaging and label layouts
  • UI/UX mockups and wireframes
  • Motion graphics assets that are later animated in After Effects

Good things about it

  • Scalability: Resize artwork infinitely without pixelation.
  • Precision: Exact control over points, curves, and measurements.
  • Integration: Works smoothly with Photoshop, InDesign, and other Adobe apps.
  • Reusable assets: Symbols, graphic styles, and swatches speed up workflow.
  • Industry standard: Skills are widely recognized and valued by employers.

Not-so-good things

  • Cost: Requires a subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud, which can be pricey for freelancers or students.
  • Learning curve: Mastering the Pen tool and vector concepts takes time.
  • Performance: Very complex files can slow down older computers.
  • Not for photos: Illustrator isn’t designed for pixel‑based image editing, so you’ll need Photoshop for that.
  • File compatibility: Sharing .ai files with non‑Adobe users can be problematic unless exported to more universal formats.