Expressions linking properties between the main composition and the pre-comp often break.

If you want to "un-precompose" (i.e., move layers from a pre-comp back into the main comp while preserving properties), After Effects has a native feature:

| Method | Pros | Cons | |--------|------|------| | | ✅ Fast, one-click operation ✅ Preserves effects/keyframes ✅ Free to use | ⚠️ Minor limitations with 3D/cameras ⚠️ Requires download/install | | Manual Copy/Paste | ✅ No extra software needed | ❌ Extremely time-consuming ❌ High risk of misalignment ❌ Expressions may break | | Other Premium Scripts | ✅ May offer additional features | ❌ Usually cost $20–50 ❌ Steeper learning curve |

Keeps your layer timing intact, even if the pre-comp container was shifted or stretched in time.

: Includes settings to automatically delete the source composition from the project panel after extraction.

Place the script file in the following folder:

into the ScriptUI Panels folder. Launch After Effects.

: If both the pre-comp and the main composition have active cameras in 3D space.

A: "Shy Precomp" is a different (paid) script. Un-Precompose removes the precomp; Shy Precomp hides it visually but keeps the structure intact.