Select object groups and nested object groups

Last updated on Oct 27, 2025

Learn how to easily select grouped and nested objects in Adobe Illustrator to customize grouped elements within your designs.

Select objects and groups using the Group Selection tool

Select and hold the Direct Selection tool, then select the Group Selection tool.

Select an object within the group.

Select the object again to select its parent group.

Select the object a third time to select more groups that are grouped with the selected group.

Select the Selection tool.

Select an object inside the group or drag across part or all of it to make a selection.

To add or remove a group to the selection, hold Shift and select the group.

Select the Selection tool.

Double-click a group to enter isolation mode.

Select deeper objects or nested groups by selecting them again inside isolation mode.

Double-click outside the group to deselect the group.

Tip

To select a single object within a group, use the Group Selection tool, Lasso tool, or Direct Selection tool.

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Select objects enclosed in a marquee

Select faces and edges in Live Paint groups

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