What is the best way to draw construct this shape [see attached] using the Pen Bézier Path Tool? Not the Calligraphy Tool. For this example, I want to begin at point A, and move clockwise to B, C, D and back to point A.

I recognize this could be done by creating a rectangle, however I want to learn how to use the PEN Tool, and this shape demonstrates drawing both straight and curved line segments which are connected.

Really Pen tool not Bézier tool?

There are two pens... Bezier and Calligraphic. 

Fastest way for me is B-Pen, then Node tool.

The result will not be symmetrical if that counts.

Meh... that's what guides are for.

And an extra node. 😅 But the guide isn´t necessary when a lift with ctrl will do. hint hint.

Thank you, Tyler. Thanks for your detailed video demonstration[s]. Your method is fast and efficient and symmetrical. However, my goal is to learn how to draw/construct paths [using the Pen Tool aka the Bézier Tool. Not to be confused with the Calligraphy or Pencil Tool] with both straight and curved line segments. This shape is merely an example [perhaps not the best] to illustrate how to draw [without interruption or editing them after the fact] curves and straight lines. Presumable, the Pen Tool allows one to construct both straight and curved lines seamlessly without the need to edit them after the fact.

It takes practice and it is not likely to make a handle on each end, but using the shift key when dragging will make corner nodes.

The trick is to release the mouse button after the drag, but continue to hold the shift key down.

Nice! This is what I'm after. I'm going to give it a try. Thanks! Edit: This is great! Exactly what I want to accomplish. My mistake was not holding the Shift key at point B. Note: If you let go of the Shift key at point C and drag, you can get the other handle, though you must then press Shift-L to covert the smooth point to a corner.

"jam": just another method for a circular top rectangle made from a circle.