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illinator Points Disappearing? Troubleshoot & Show Hidden Points

Cynthia Jul 13, 2026

Are you facing issues with Illustrator CS6 points not showing up? You're not alone. This can be a frustrating problem, especially when you're in the middle of a project. Let's dive into some possible solutions and troubleshooting techniques to help you get back on track.

Illustrator Anchor Points Not Showing? How to Fix Missing Anchor Points Easily
Illustrator Anchor Points Not Showing? How to Fix Missing Anchor Points Easily

Before we begin, ensure that you're working with the latest version of Adobe Illustrator CS6. Updates often include bug fixes that may resolve your issue. Now, let's explore the possible reasons behind your disappearing points and how to address them.

a drawing of a hand holding a megaphone with two yellow pins sticking out of it
a drawing of a hand holding a megaphone with two yellow pins sticking out of it

Check Your Document Raster Effects Settings (RES)

Sometimes,pdfs or images imported into Illustrator CS6 may appear without points, but that's just an illusion. They're still there, hidden due to the document's RES settings. Here's how to unhide them:

Illustrator Tip For Anchor Points
Illustrator Tip For Anchor Points

1. Go to 'Object' > 'Rasterize' > 'Show Original'. If your points reappear, the problem is with the raster effects. To permanently resolve this:

  • Right-click your image, and select 'Rasterize'.
  • Choose 'Current Layer' or 'All Layers', then click 'OK'.
  • Your points should now be visible even after saving and re-opening your file.
a woman standing in front of a large colorful wave
a woman standing in front of a large colorful wave

Force Points to Show

If the above step doesn't work, try forcing Illustrator to show your points. Here's how:

1. Go to 'View' > 'Show' (ensure 'Points' is checked). If it's not, click it.

several hands pointing at something in the middle of a circle with an id card on it
several hands pointing at something in the middle of a circle with an id card on it

2. If your points still don't appear, try toggling the 'Points' view on and off a few times. Sometimes, Illustrator needs a push to cooperate.

Adjust Your Document Bleed Settings

The bleed settings in Illustrator CS6 can sometimes cause points to disappear. Here's how to adjust them:

pointing meme
pointing meme

1. Go to 'File' > 'Document Setup'.

2. In the 'Bleed' section, ensure both the width and the checkbox are set to 0.

an image of different types of tomatoes in english and japanese characters on the same page
an image of different types of tomatoes in english and japanese characters on the same page
an image of flowers in different colors on a black background with japanese characters and words
an image of flowers in different colors on a black background with japanese characters and words
Think Different Infographics Template with Illustration. Stock Template
Think Different Infographics Template with Illustration. Stock Template
an apple is shown with the caption'halftone effect in illustrator
an apple is shown with the caption'halftone effect in illustrator
a book cover with an image of a star in the center and text that reads,'en illustrator
a book cover with an image of a star in the center and text that reads,'en illustrator
many different images of hands and gestures in various positions, including one pointing at the viewer
many different images of hands and gestures in various positions, including one pointing at the viewer
Illustrator Tip: Delete Anchor Points While Maintaining Shape ✨
Illustrator Tip: Delete Anchor Points While Maintaining Shape ✨
表情:开心,卖萌
表情:开心,卖萌
a drawing of a man watering a flower with a red flower in the middle of it
a drawing of a man watering a flower with a red flower in the middle of it

3. If your points still aren't showing, try a smaller bleed width (like 0.125 in or 3 mm) to see if that helps.

Check Your Layer Visibility and Locking

It's possible that your points are hidden or locked on a different layer. Here's how to check:

1. Press 'Ctrl + L' to show the Layers panel if it's not already visible.

2. Look for any layers with an eye icon (visibility) or a lock symbol (locked) next to them. Click the eye to show the layer, or click the lock to unlock it. Your points should now be visible.

Remember, Illustrator can sometimes behave oddly, so don't hesitate to try a few different solutions before you find the one that works for you. Happy designing!