How to Select Hidden Objects in CorelDRAW

Selecting objects that are obscured or completely covered by other elements is a common challenge when working on complex designs in CorelDRAW. This guide details the fastest and most effective methods to target and select hidden objects without moving or disrupting the overlapping layers above them, using keyboard shortcuts, view modes, and layer management tools.

1. The Alt-Click Method (Digging Tool)

The fastest way to select an object buried beneath others is using the Pick tool in combination with the Alt key.

  1. Select the Pick tool from the toolbox.
  2. Hold down the Alt key on your keyboard.
  3. Click directly on the area where the hidden object is located. CorelDRAW will select the top object first.
  4. While continuing to hold Alt, click the same spot again. The selection will drop down to the next object in the stacking order.
  5. Keep clicking until the desired hidden object is selected.

2. Using the Objects Docker

For complex files with dozens of overlapping paths, the Objects docker provides a visual hierarchy of your entire document.

  1. Go to the menu bar and click Window > Dockers > Objects (or Object Manager in older CorelDRAW versions).
  2. Expand the active layer to view the list of objects.
  3. Scroll through the list to find the hidden object and click its name or icon to select it directly on the canvas.
  4. Optional: Click the Eye icon next to any overlapping objects in the docker to hide them temporarily, allowing you to interact with the hidden object normally.

3. Switching to Wireframe View

If fills and complex effects make selecting underlying elements difficult, switching display modes removes fills and exposes all vector outlines.

  1. Go to the top menu and click View > Wireframe.
  2. With fills removed, click directly on the outline of the hidden object using the Pick tool.
  3. Once selected or edited, return to the standard display mode by selecting View > Enhanced.

4. Cycling with the Tab Key

You can navigate the stacking order sequentially across your document using the keyboard.

  1. Select any visible object on the page with the Pick tool.
  2. Press Tab to move the selection to the next object lower in the stacking order.
  3. Press Shift + Tab to cycle upward through the stacking order until the hidden object is highlighted.