Perfect Circle guide

Draw a smoother circle in one continuous motion

The score compares how consistently your points sit around a centre and how closely the end of the line returns to the beginning. A circle can look acceptable but lose points if one section is flattened, the radius changes or the loop finishes far from its start.

Choose the centre before you begin

Look at the middle of the drawing board and imagine the circle around that point. Do not chase the cursor with your eyes. Keeping attention near the centre makes changes in radius easier to notice.

Use most of the board

A very small circle magnifies tiny hand movements. A medium-to-large circle gives you more space to correct naturally without creating a sharp corner. Leave a margin so the line does not touch the edge.

Draw with one joint

• For a mouse, try a controlled wrist movement for a medium circle or a gentle forearm movement for a larger one.
• For touch, use the finger and hand together rather than repeatedly changing direction at the fingertip.
• Avoid switching between wrist and arm halfway through the loop.

Keep a steady speed

Rushing the last quarter often produces a flat side or an overshoot. Move at a pace that lets the hand complete the full arc without pausing. A pause creates a cluster of points and often introduces a visible kink.

Close the loop cleanly

As you approach the starting point, continue the curve rather than steering directly toward it. Cutting across the final arc may reduce the endpoint distance but makes the shape less circular. Aim to meet the start while maintaining the same tangent direction.

Use the score diagnostically

If the circle is round but the score remains low, check the closure. If the ends meet but the score is still low, compare the widest and narrowest parts of the loop. Change one thing per attempt instead of drawing faster at random.