Always scan downloaded files for malware and verify file sizes (typically ~108KB–241KB) to ensure authenticity.
: You need to link properties between layers that are currently trapped inside different pre-compositions.
If your layers jump to a different spot on the screen when un-precomposing, check the switch (the little sun icon) on your original pre-comp. If the pre-comp was scaled or rotated, the script needs to calculate those matrix transformations. Ensure your script is updated to the latest version, as older versions struggled with complex parenting chains. 2. "Script is not allowed to write files" Error
Manually adjust the "In" and "Out" points to match the previous pre-comp container. Re-link any expressions that broke during the move.
Navigate to your computer's After Effects directory and place the downloaded script file into the folder. Un Precompose After Effects Plugin Free Download
Because After Effects handles layer extraction through its scripting engine rather than standard visual effects rendering, these tools are technically classified as rather than .aex plugins. They install directly into your ScriptUI Panels folder. 1. Un-Precompose by BatchFrame (The Industry Standard)
A small UI panel will appear. Choose your preferences (such as transferring effects or deleting the original container). Click .
Because After Effects scripts use Javascript extensions, these tools are lightweight, safe, and highly compatible across different versions of After Effects (including CC 2020 through CC 2026). Step 1: Download the Script
Extracts all layers, matches the timing of the main comp, and can automatically delete the empty pre-comp after extraction. Always scan downloaded files for malware and verify
This is the gold standard for this specific task. Originally created by Batchframe and hosted on aescripts.com, this script has been a community staple for over a decade. Name Your Own Price ($0.00 minimum)
Once you have downloaded your file (e.g., UnPrecompose.jsx ), follow these steps:
If you are on a restricted work computer and cannot download plugins, you can do it manually using these steps: Select the layers you want to move. Copy Layers: Hit Ctrl+C (Cmd+C).
What (e.g., character animation, VFX, UI/UX mockups) do you primarily work on? If the pre-comp was scaled or rotated, the
/Applications/Adobe After Effects [Version]/Scripts/ScriptUI Panels/
Navigate to aescripts, enter $0 in the price box, add it to your cart, and check out for free. 2. DecomposeText (Alternative Layer Extraction)
This manual workaround disrupts your creative flow and risks breaking expressions, parenting links, and timing. The Solution: Un-Precompose After Effects Plugin / Script
The Ultimate Guide to Un-Precompose in After Effects (And How to Do It For Free)