How to Select the Shortest Path in Blender

The Shortest Path selection method in Blender is a powerful modeling tool that allows users to quickly select a continuous chain of vertices, edges, or faces between two points on a 3D mesh. By holding down the Ctrl key and selecting a destination element, Blender automatically calculates and highlights the most direct route across the mesh geometry. This feature significantly accelerates workflows in mesh editing, retopology, seam marking, and UV unwrapping by eliminating the need to select individual components manually.

How to Use the Shortest Path Tool

Using the Shortest Path tool in Blender requires entering Edit Mode and utilizing a simple keyboard shortcut.

  1. Enter Edit Mode: Select your 3D object and press Tab to enter Edit Mode.
  2. Choose a Selection Mode: Switch to Vertex, Edge, or Face select mode by pressing 1, 2, or 3 on your keyboard, respectively.
  3. Select the Starting Point: Click on the initial vertex, edge, or face from which you want your selection to begin.
  4. Execute the Command: Hold Ctrl and left-click on the target vertex, edge, or face. Blender will instantly select all intermediate elements along the shortest route between the two points.

Controlling Path Calculation Settings

Once a shortest path selection is made, you can fine-tune how Blender calculates the path using the Pick Shortest Path operator panel (or "Adjust Last Operation" menu) located in the bottom-left corner of the viewport (or by pressing F9).

Path Type Options

  • Topology: Calculates the path based strictly on the fewest number of connected edges or faces, ignoring physical distance in 3D space.
  • Geodesic: Calculates the path based on the actual physical distance across the surface of the mesh.

Additional Selection Features

  • Fill Region: When selecting edges or vertices, checking this box selects all geometry enclosed inside a continuous boundary path.
  • Edge Tagging: Allows you to automatically apply specific attributes—such as Seams, Sharp Edges, Creases, or Bevel Weights—directly to the calculated path without manual assignment later.

Best Use Cases in 3D Workflows

  • UV Unwrapping: Rapidly select complex paths across a model to mark UV seams using Ctrl + Click, followed by Ctrl + E > Mark Seam.
  • Hard Surface Modeling: Highlight specific structural lines along detailed mechanical meshes to define bevel edges or sharp shading boundaries.
  • Character Modeling: Easily navigate around curved anatomical features like arms, legs, or facial features to isolate geometry for sculpting or rigging adjustments.