Changing Object's Shape

Cut a Path with the Scissors Tool

The Scissors tool can cut paths.

To activate the Scissors tool, click on the Scissors icon Scissors tool icon in the Tools panel.

To split a path, place the tool over the path and click. You can cut the path at any point.

Unlike other tools (e.g., Knife), the Scissors tool can edit any visible object if it is not locked. When you hover with the tool over a path, it becomes highlighted. A circle indicates the location of the cut point.

The tool makes a closed path open. Ends of two segments will overlap at the cut point and will look like a single anchor point.

What the Scissors tool does can be achieved with the Pen and Selection tools. In that case, you need to add an anchor point using the Pen tool in the corresponding mode. Then select the anchor point with the Selection tool and use its cut mode.

Modifier Keys and Shortcut Summary

Shortcut:

Scissors tool modifier keys: