How can you create offset curves in both directions simultaneously?

To create offset curves in both directions simultaneously, toggling on the Symmetric Offset option is essential. When this feature is activated, it allows you to generate offset curves that extend outward from the original geometry in both directions—forming two parallel curves at specified distances from the original. This is particularly useful in design contexts where symmetrical features are required or when you need to maintain equal spacing on either side of a defining path.

The other options do not effectively achieve the same result. For instance, creating dimensions and setting the number of copies primarily focuses on modifying existing shapes or defining geometric relationships but does not inherently provide the functionality to generate dual-directional offsets. Meanwhile, adding a new set and entering negative values may create additional curves, but it lacks the ability to symmetrically offset from the original curve in a straightforward manner. Thus, toggling the Symmetric Offset option is the most efficient and effective method for this purpose.