how to erase only part of shape

Hi Annika,

If it’s a line, you can erase either end. If you erase the middle, you will cut the path into two pieces.

If it’s a shape, such as an ellipse, you can click with the eraser tool to cut holes in it or drag to cut away part of it.

Since it’s not working, go to View > Outline to see the path without appearances and change the size of your eraser if needed. You can use the square bracket keys   [    ]  to change the size.

If it still doesn’t work, post a screenshot so we can see what you are seeing.

~ Jane

Please post meaningful screenshots including the pertinent Panels to illustrate what you are talking about.

Is the Path in question closed?

The Scissors Tool may be a better fit for what you want to do.