Split features

The Split tool is used to divide a multipoint, line, or polygon feature to create two separate features.

Split a feature

To split a feature, complete the following steps:

1. Follow the steps to select a feature.
2. To enable the Split tool, do one of the following:
   • On the editing toolbar, click Split .
   • Use the Alt+T shortcut for Windows or the Option+T shortcut for Mac.

   The tools for splitting features appear on the editing toolbar.

3. Expand the Type of split menu and choose Split by line , Split by polygon , or Split (available for line features only) to change the split method if necessary.
4. On the editing toolbar, select a drawing tool. Drawing tools include Line (default), Right angle , and Freehand .

   Learn more about drawing tools

5. Draw a shape or place a point where you want to split the feature.

   The shape or point must intersect the feature to split it. If the feature is a polygon, the split line must pass through two or more edges.

   To split multipart features, use Split by polygon and draw the polygon around the part of the feature you want to split from the other parts.

6. To finish splitting a feature, do one of the following:
   • If the final vertex has already been placed, click the Complete button on the editing toolbar to apply the changes. To discard the changes without creating the feature, click the Cancel button .
   • Double-click the map to add the final vertex and apply the changes.

   The feature is split into two or more features.

7. Repeat steps 3 to 6 to create additional splits in the selected feature if necessary.
8. On the editing toolbar, click Finished .

Troubleshooting

If the split features disappear after they're created, it may mean a definition expression or filter is applied to the layer. Update or remove the definition expression or filter for the layer in Map Viewer to verify the features were split correctly.