The path of placement and removal of a removable partial denture is primarily determined by the retentive areas of the abutment teeth. These are usually the undercuts that provide mechanical retention and guide the denture during insertion and removal. Proper identification and utilization of these undercuts ensure the denture seats securely without damaging soft tissues or adjacent teeth. Other components like occlusal rests or connectors support or stabilize the prosthesis but do not govern the path. Hence, the design relies on engaging the correct retentive undercuts to control the movement trajectory of the denture.

Reference: Contemporary Fixed Prosthodontics, Rosenstiel SF, 5th Edition.