How Do I Unmerge in Illustrator?

Unmerging in Illustrator depends on what you've merged. There isn't a single "unmerge" function. The method depends on whether you merged layers, paths, or used the Pathfinder tool.

Unmerging Layers

The simplest way to unmerge layers is to use the Undo command. This reverses your last action.

• PC: Press Ctrl + Z.
• Mac: Press Command + Z.

This method works immediately after merging. If you've performed other actions since merging, you may need to use the History panel (Window > History) to revert to a state before the merge. The History panel provides a visual record of all actions you've taken, allowing you to step backward through your edits.

Unmerging Paths (United Shapes)

If you've merged paths using the Pathfinder's Unite function or similar tools, the Undo command (Ctrl+Z/Cmd+Z) is again your first resort. However, there's no dedicated "unmerge" for paths after they are united. The paths become a single object. You may need to manually separate the objects based on their shape, color, etc.

• If the merged paths are simple and clearly defined, you might be able to use the Direct Selection Tool (A) to select individual parts of the combined path and separate them. This requires careful selection and may not be possible for complex shapes.

• If the problem is with the Pathfinder tool's Unite function creating a group instead of merging individual objects, remember that selecting all elements (Select > All) and then using Pathfinder > Unite on already grouped non-contiguous objects will only create a Group. In such a case, simply ungrouping the object will restore the individual parts.

Unmerging Objects Grouped Together

If you've simply grouped objects together (using the Group command or Ctrl/Cmd+G), you can easily ungroup them:

• Select the group.
• Go to Object > Ungroup (or press Ctrl + Shift + G on PC or Command + Shift + G on Mac).

In summary, the method for "unmerging" in Illustrator is context-dependent. The best approach will always depend on exactly what you merged. The Undo command is the most straightforward initial solution for recent actions. Referencing the History panel is a better choice when dealing with a sequence of edits.