Connecting Curve Segments with Cusp Points in Photoshop

If you need to create a curve that goes in the same direction as a curve that is adjacent to it, you need to take a couple additional steps:

1. Convert the point — this time from smooth to cusp — by positioning your cursor over the second anchor point in the existing curve and pressing the Alt key (Option on the Mac).

2. Drag toward the bump of the curve. Release the mouse button and then release the Alt (Option on the Mac) key.
Essentially, your actions are pulling the direction line out from the anchor point. Both direction lines move to the same side of the anchor point, yet are independent of each other, creating the cusp point.

3. Move your cursor to where you want the curve to end and drag away from the bump to create your second curve.

Try to keep anchor points on either side of the curve, not along the top. It is also good to try to use the fewest number of anchor points possible to create your path. That way, the path will result in a much smoother curve. It will also create a smaller file size and reduce the possibility of printing problems.

To draw a curve after a straight segment, first position your cursor directly on the last anchor point of the straight segment. Drag toward the bump of the curve you need to draw. A direction line appears.
Position your cursor where you want the curve to end and drag away from the bump.