If you’re completely new to motion design and ready to dive into the world of animation, this course is the perfect starting point. Taught by designer and motion graphics expert Hongshu Guo, this beginner-friendly course walks you through everything you need to know to open After Effects with confidence and start creating animations from scratch.
Beginner's Guide to Adobe After Effects: Core Tools & Setup
Beginner's Guide to Adobe After Effects: Core Tools & Setup
This course is part of multiple programs.
Instructor: Skillshare
Access provided by REBOOT
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll gain
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Shareable certificate
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Assessments
3 assignments
Taught in English
Recently updated!
July 2025
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There are 3 modules in this course
Start your After Effects journey by getting familiar with the interface and essential tools. In this module, you'll explore how compositions function within a project, learn how to navigate core panels like the timeline and project window, and customize your workspace for a smoother workflow. You’ll also get hands-on with basic animation properties—like position, scale, and opacity—to bring simple objects to life.
What's included
4 videos1 reading1 assignment1 discussion prompt
An organized workflow is key to working efficiently in After Effects. This module teaches you how to set up new projects, import and move assets confidently within compositions, and keep everything tidy with smart file structures, naming conventions, folders, and labels. These foundational skills will help you stay focused and creative as your projects grow in complexity.
What's included
3 videos1 assignment1 discussion prompt
Now it’s time to dive deeper into animation. You’ll learn to create and refine keyframes to control timing and transitions, and explore how combining core properties—like position, opacity, and scale—can produce clean, professional motion graphics. Through guided examples and a hands-on project, you’ll build your confidence in creating simple yet polished animation sequences.
What's included
4 videos1 assignment1 peer review1 discussion prompt
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