Split Layer Shortcut in Adobe After Effects

Splitting layers is a fundamental technique in Adobe After Effects that allows editors to cut, reorganize, and apply different effects to specific sections of footage or graphics. This guide covers the exact keyboard shortcuts for splitting layers on both Windows and macOS, explains step-by-step how to execute the command, and highlights related trimming shortcuts to speed up your post-production workflow.

The Split Layer Keyboard Shortcut

To split a layer at the current position of the playhead (Current Time Indicator), select the layer and use the following shortcut:

Windows: Ctrl + Shift + D
macOS: Cmd + Shift + D

When executed, After Effects cuts the selected layer into two distinct layers. The original layer's Out point is set to the current frame, and a duplicate layer is created immediately above it with its In point starting on the exact same frame.

How to Split a Layer Step-by-Step

Open your composition and navigate to the Timeline panel.
Select the specific layer (or hold Ctrl/Cmd to select multiple layers) that you want to cut.
Move the Current Time Indicator (CTI) to the exact frame where the split should occur.
Press Ctrl + Shift + D (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + D (macOS).

If you prefer using the application menu rather than keyboard commands, select your layer, position the playhead, and go to Edit > Split Layer in the top navigation bar.

Splitting vs. Trimming

Splitting is distinct from trimming. Splitting divides a layer into two independent parts so you can manipulate them separately, such as adding a transition or effect to only the second half.

If you only want to adjust the start or end of a layer without duplicating it, use these trimming shortcuts instead:

Trim In Point to CTI: Alt + [ (Windows) or Option + [ (macOS)
Trim Out Point to CTI: Alt + ] (Windows) or Option + ] (macOS)