Comps, layers and time
After Effects is a layer-based compositor with time as a first-class axis. A composition ("comp") is a canvas with a duration; layers sit inside it and animate over time. Master those three concepts and the rest of the software falls into place.
Create your first comp
Composition → New Composition. 1920×1080, 30 fps, 10 seconds is the safest starting point. Drag a logo PNG or AI file from the project panel into the comp — it becomes a layer.
Transform properties
Press P for Position, S for Scale, R for Rotation, T for Opacity. Hit shortcuts together (Shift+S after P) to reveal multiple. Every property has a stopwatch — clicking it creates a keyframe at the current time.
Keyframes and the timeline
Move the time indicator, change a value, and a new keyframe is added automatically. Two keyframes plus a value change equals animation. Right-click a keyframe → Keyframe Assistant → Easy Ease (F9) for instant smooth motion.
The Graph Editor
Click the Graph Editor icon at the top of the timeline. Drag bezier handles on keyframes to control acceleration and overshoot. Steep slope = fast motion, flat slope = hold. This is where motion design lives.
Parenting and null objects
Layer → New → Null Object. Pickwhip a layer's parent column to the null. Animating the null moves every child together — essential for rigging logos, characters and complex compositions.
Pre-comps
Select multiple layers → Cmd/Ctrl+Shift+C → Pre-compose. The selection becomes a nested comp, simplifying the timeline and letting you apply a single effect to the group. Use sparingly to avoid render-tree complexity.
Render with Media Encoder
Composition → Add to Adobe Media Encoder Queue. Choose H.264 for web, ProRes for editing pipelines. Render in the background while you keep working in After Effects.