How can I create multiple shape files from a single multipoint shape file?

[KarlChristensen1]

I am trying to run the TauDEM tools on multiple points that are saved in a single shapefile. I am trying to write a script that will separate the original multipoint file into multiple shape files that can be passed through TauDEM and with multiple outputs.  I do NOT want to convert my multipoint shapefile into one single point shapefile.

[DanPatterson_Retired]

Well if you did do the conversion the multipoints to single points you could then use http://www.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=15ca63aebb4647a4b07bc94f3d051da5

to produce the individual shapefiles using the FID as the split key.

[KarlChristensen1]

I am still new to ArcGIS, but I am trying to understand terms. Am I correct to say that I want to carry all of the attributes of each point over into the next shape file? If that is the case, what do I call each point that I am trying to split?

[DanPatterson_Retired · Accepted solution]

If you just have multiple points (ie one record in the table for each point) you are ready to go. 

If you have a multipoint shapefile (there is a difference) then you need to use the MultipartToSinglePart tool first.

Next, unzip the toolbox and its scripts in a folder, start arctoolbox, and add the toolbox, then run the tool

I will do the rest for you, just specify the FID field as the field to split on so that each pont becomes its own shapefile

[KarlChristensen1]

That did it! I still want to study your code to see how it works, but it's solved the problem.  Thank you so much!

[DanPatterson_Retired]

keep your eyes on the site, I am finishing newer versions which are faster with more options and useable in 10.3 and 10.4 and ArcGIS PRO