AFTEREFFECTS Questions

Question 1: Interface and Basics

Which panel in After Effects is primarily used for organizing and managing project assets?

a) Effects b) Project c) Composition d) Timeline

Answer: b) Project

Explanation: The Project panel in After Effects is the primary area used for organizing and
managing all the assets related to a project. This includes imported media files such as videos,
images, and audio, as well as compositions, solids, and other elements used within the project.
The Project panel allows you to easily locate, organize, and access these assets, making it
essential for efficient project management. This panel helps keep the workflow organized and
ensures that all necessary files are readily available when needed for compositions and editing
tasks.

Question 2: Composition and Layers In After Effects, what is the purpose of a composition?
a) To import media files into the project. b) To apply effects and animations to layers. c) To
preview compositions and visual effects. d) To export the final video project.

Answer: b) To apply effects and animations to layers.

Explanation: A composition in After Effects is essentially a container where you can place
layers and apply various effects, animations, and transformations to them. It is the workspace
where you create your animations and visual effects, arranging and combining different media
assets to achieve the desired outcome. You can think of a composition as a scene in which you
build your project, layer by layer.

Question 3: Animation Techniques Which property is commonly used to create motion

animations in After Effects? a) Scale b) Opacity c) Position d) Rotation

Answer: c) Position

Explanation: The Position property is commonly used to create motion animations in After
Effects. By setting keyframes for the Position property, you can move a layer from one point to
another over time, creating smooth motion paths. While Scale, Opacity, and Rotation are also
important properties for animation, Position is the primary property used to create movement
across the screen.
Question 4: Special Effects Which effect in After Effects is commonly used to create a
simulated 3D effect? a) Warp Stabilizer b) Bulge c) CC Lens d) Drop Shadow

Answer: c) CC Lens

Explanation: The CC Lens effect is commonly used to create a simulated 3D effect in After
Effects. It can warp and distort the image, giving the impression of a fisheye lens or other
lens-based distortions, which can simulate depth and a 3D-like appearance. Warp Stabilizer is
used to stabilize shaky footage, Bulge creates a bulging effect, and Drop Shadow adds
shadows to layers, but they do not create 3D effects.

Question 5: Keyframes and Timing What do keyframes represent in After Effects? a) The
starting point of an animation. b) The ending point of an animation. c) A snapshot of a layer's
properties at a specific point in time. d) A placeholder for media files within a composition.

Answer: c) A snapshot of a layer's properties at a specific point in time.

Explanation: Keyframes represent a snapshot of a layer's properties at a specific point in time

in After Effects. They are used to define the start and end points of any transition or change in a
layer's properties, such as Position, Scale, Opacity, and more. By setting keyframes, you can
create animations by changing these properties over time.

Question 6: Graph Editor What is the purpose of the Graph Editor in After Effects? a) To
preview compositions and visual effects. b) To apply effects and animations to layers. c) To
create smooth, customized animation curves. d) To organize and manage project assets.

Answer: c) To create smooth, customized animation curves.

Explanation: The Graph Editor in After Effects is used to create smooth, customized animation
curves. It allows you to visualize and adjust the interpolation of keyframes, providing fine control
over the speed and motion of animations. The Graph Editor can show either the value graph or
the speed graph, making it easier to achieve precise and natural-looking animations.

Question 7: Rendering and Exporting Which option in the Render Queue panel allows you to
specify the output format and settings for the final rendered video? a) Output Module b) Render
Settings c) Output To d) Composition Settings

Answer: a) Output Module

Explanation: The Output Module in the Render Queue panel allows you to specify the output
format and settings for the final rendered video. It provides options for selecting the file format,
compression settings, audio settings, and other parameters that determine how the final video
will be encoded and saved. Render Settings define the quality and resolution, while Output To
specifies the file destination.
Question 8: Rendering Process What does the term "rendering" refer to in After Effects? a)
Saving changes made to a project. b) Exporting the final video. c) Generating preview files for
smoother playback. d) Adjusting the playback speed of a clip.

Answer: b) Exporting the final video.

Explanation: Rendering in After Effects refers to the process of exporting the final video. It
involves processing all the compositions, layers, effects, and animations to create a final output
file. Rendering is the step where all the elements in your project are combined and outputted
into a playable video file, ready for distribution or further editing.

Question 9: Audio Effects Which panel in After Effects allows you to add and manipulate
audio files? a) Effects b) Project c) Timeline d) Audio Mixer

Answer: d) Audio Mixer

Explanation: The Audio Mixer panel in After Effects allows you to add and manipulate audio
files. It provides tools for adjusting volume levels, panning, and applying audio effects to the
sound tracks within your composition. While the Project panel organizes assets, the Timeline
panel arranges layers, and the Effects panel applies visual effects, the Audio Mixer is
specifically designed for handling audio.

Question 10: Text Animation Which tool is used to create text animations in After Effects? a)
Text Box Tool b) Type Tool c) Pen Tool d) Brush Tool

Answer: b) Type Tool

Explanation: The Type Tool in After Effects is used to create text animations. It allows you to
add text layers to your compositions and animate them using various properties and presets.
You can animate text by adjusting properties such as Position, Scale, Opacity, and using
text-specific animation presets and effects to create dynamic and engaging text animations. The
Text Box Tool, Pen Tool, and Brush Tool serve other functions like drawing shapes or painting.

Question 11: Accessing Frames in a Video What is the ability to access any frame in a video
in order to make changes? a) Nonlinear Editing b) Play head c) Time Slider d) Scrubbing

Answer: a) Nonlinear Editing

Explanation: Nonlinear editing allows you to access any frame in a video and make changes
without affecting the sequence of other frames. This method provides the flexibility to make edits
at any point in the timeline, making it a preferred approach in modern video editing.

Question 12: Sharing Files Between Applications A command that allows you to share files
between applications so that when a file is updated in one program, it is automatically updated
in the other. a) Dynamic Link b) Save as c) Save d) Export

Answer: a) Dynamic Link

Explanation: Dynamic Link is a feature in Adobe software that allows seamless integration
between applications like After Effects and Premiere Pro. It enables you to share files and
updates dynamically, meaning changes made in one application are automatically reflected in
the other without the need for re-rendering or exporting.

Question 13: References for a Movie In After Effects, ________ holds all the references for a
movie; can be dynamically linked to Premiere Pro or to Encore. a) Project b) Composition c)
Timeline d) Monitor

Answer: a) Project

Explanation: In After Effects, the Project panel holds all the references for a movie, including
compositions, media files, and other assets. This panel can be dynamically linked to
applications like Premiere Pro or Encore, allowing for a streamlined workflow and consistent
project management.

Question 14: Logo Overlay A logo overlaid on a portion of the television viewing area to
identify the channel, much like a watermark? a) Digital on-screen graphic b) Digital Off-screen
graphic c) Print graphic d) Print Logo

Answer: a) Digital on-screen graphic

Explanation: A digital on-screen graphic (DOG) is a logo or other graphic element overlaid on
the screen to identify the channel or broadcaster. It is similar to a watermark and is commonly
used to brand content and prevent unauthorized use.

Question 15: Production Logo An opening or closing logo used by movie and television
production companies at the beginning of a theatrical movie or at the end of a television
program or movie to brand what they have produced. a) Production logo b) Film/TV programme
c) Credits d) Montage

Answer: a) Production logo

Explanation: A production logo is an opening or closing logo used by production companies to

brand their content. It appears at the beginning of a movie or at the end of a television program
or movie, identifying the company responsible for the production.

Question 16: Title and Credit Animation Motion graphics shown at the beginning of a movie
or television program to provide the title and credit the actors. a) Title sequence b) Logo c)
Promo d) Recap
Answer: a) Title sequence

Explanation: A title sequence is a motion graphic presentation shown at the beginning of a

movie or television program. It provides the title of the work and credits the actors, director, and
other key personnel involved in the production.

Question 17: Default Workspace The default workspace in After Effects a) Standard b)
Custom c) User d) AE Mode

Answer: a) Standard

Explanation: The default workspace in After Effects is known as the "Standard" workspace. It
provides a layout that includes essential panels and tools needed for most common tasks,
making it a good starting point for new users.

Question 18: Custom Workspace A workspace that has been created by a user and saved
with a unique name. a) User space b) Custom c) Standard d) Custom workspace

Answer: d) Custom workspace

Explanation: A custom workspace in After Effects is a workspace that has been created and
saved by a user with a unique name. This allows users to set up their workspace according to
their preferences and workflow requirements, ensuring a more efficient editing process.

Question 19: Tool Panel Tool Panel provides various tools including the selection tool and the
zoom tool and can be found in every application. a) True b) False

Answer: a) True

Explanation: The Tool Panel in After Effects provides various tools, including the Selection
Tool, Zoom Tool, and others. This panel is a common feature in many applications, providing
quick access to essential tools needed for editing and manipulation of assets.

Question 20: Organizing Assets The panel that organizes all the assets for a project in
Premiere Pro, After Effects, or Encore. a) Project panel b) Render queue c) Safe Zone d)
Multiple Support Panel

Answer: a) Project panel

Explanation: The Project panel is where all assets for a project are organized in Premiere Pro,
After Effects, and Encore. It allows users to manage media files, compositions, and other
elements efficiently, ensuring an organized workflow.

Question 21: Assets in After Effects The term used for assets in After Effects a) Footage b)
Tools c) Effects d) Transitions
Answer: a) Footage

Explanation: In After Effects, the term "footage" is used to refer to assets such as video clips,
images, and audio files. These assets are imported into the Project panel and used within
compositions to create animations and effects.

Question 22: Parts of a Composition In After Effects, the parts of a composition where
footage is added: represented as a bar graph. a) Layers b) Filters c) Effects d) Project panel

Answer: a) Layers

Explanation: In After Effects, layers represent the parts of a composition where footage is
added. Each layer can contain different types of media, such as video, images, or text, and they
are displayed as bar graphs in the Timeline panel, allowing you to manage and animate them.

Question 23: Composition Panel Composition Panel in After Effects that represents layers
spatially, and compositions are displayed at the location of the CTI on the Timeline panel. a)
True b) False

Answer: a) True

Explanation: The Composition Panel in After Effects represents layers spatially and shows
compositions at the location of the Current Time Indicator (CTI) on the Timeline panel. This
allows you to see how layers are positioned and interact within the composition at a specific
point in time.

Question 24: Unit of Measurement for Video Design The unit of measurement typically used
when designing for video output or the Web; equal to 1/72 of an inch. a) Bit Depth b) Resolution
c) Pixel d) Aspect Ratio

Answer: c) Pixel

Explanation: A pixel is the unit of measurement typically used when designing for video output
or the Web. It is equal to 1/72 of an inch and represents the smallest unit of a digital image,
used to create and measure resolution and detail in video and web graphics.

Question 25: Safe Zones The viewing area designed to ensure that certain content is not
missed when being played on television screens; broken down into two areas: title safe zone
and action safe zone. a) Safe Zones b) Safety c) Broadcast Zone d) Frame Safety

Answer: a) Safe Zones

Explanation: Safe Zones are areas in a video composition designed to ensure that important
content is not missed when played on television screens. They include the title safe zone, which
ensures text is visible, and the action safe zone, which ensures that key visual elements are not
cut off.

Question 26: Title Safe Zone The inner margin of the safe zone that ensures text will be visible
on all TV displays. a) Title Safe Zone b) Action Safe Zone c) Logo Safe d) Movie Safe

Answer: a) Title Safe Zone

Explanation: The Title Safe Zone is the inner margin of the safe zone that ensures text and
essential graphics are visible on all TV displays. It prevents important information from being cut
off due to the overscan of various display devices.

Question 27: Action Safe Zone The outer margin of the safe zone where content is
guaranteed to be visible on all television displays. a) Broadcast Safe Zone b) Action Safe Zone
c) Logo Safe d) Movie Safe

Answer: b) Action Safe Zone

Explanation: The Action Safe Zone is the outer margin of the safe zone, ensuring that all
critical content remains visible on all television displays. This zone accounts for the potential
cropping that can occur on different screens.

Question 28: Single File Storage A single file in After Effects that stores compositions and
references to footage used. a) Project b) Render c) Format d) Output

Answer: a) Project

Explanation: In After Effects, a Project file is a single file that stores all the compositions,
references to footage, and other assets used in a project. It serves as a central repository for all
elements needed to create animations and effects.

Question 29: Synthetic Layer What is a synthetic layer? a) A layer that is created without
using source footage b) A layer that is created using source footage c) A layer with effects d) A
layer with mask

Answer: a) A layer that is created without using source footage

Explanation: A synthetic layer in After Effects is created without using source footage.
Examples include solid layers, shape layers, and text layers, which are generated within the
software and can be used to create various visual elements and effects.

Question 30: Temporal Layer Property A type of After Effects layer property that changes a
layer over time. a) Spatial b) Temporal c) Continuous d) Regular

Answer: b) Temporal

Explanation: A temporal layer property in After Effects changes a layer over time. Properties
such as Position, Scale, and Opacity are examples, as they can be animated using keyframes
to create dynamic changes throughout the timeline.

Question 31: Spatial Layer Property A type of layer property in After Effects that has the
ability to move or add motion across composition space. a) Spatial b) Temporal c) Bezier d)
Smooth

Answer: a) Spatial

Explanation: A spatial layer property in After Effects affects how a layer moves or adds motion
across composition space. Properties like Position and Anchor Point are spatial, determining
where a layer is placed and how it moves within the composition.

Question 32: Animation Preset A collection of animation settings in After Effects that include
keyframes and effects that can be applied to a layer. a) Animation Preset b) Animated
characters c) Animation Loops d) Animation Settings

Answer: a) Animation Preset

Explanation: An animation preset in After Effects is a collection of animation settings, including

keyframes and effects, that can be applied to a layer. These presets provide a quick way to
apply complex animations and effects without having to manually set each parameter.

Question 33: Rendered File A term used in After Effects to describe a file that is created by
rendering a composition. a) Film b) Movie c) Clip d) Render

Answer: d) Render

Explanation: In After Effects, a "render" refers to a file created by processing a composition

and outputting it as a video file. Rendering is the final step where all layers, effects, and
animations are compiled into a playable format.

Question 34: Render Queue Item In After Effects, an item that has been added to the Render
Queue panel. a) Layers b) Effects c) Render Item d) Formats

Answer: c) Render Item

Explanation: A render item in After Effects is an item that has been added to the Render
Queue panel. It represents a composition or part of a composition that is queued for rendering,
including specific output settings and destinations.

Question 35: Nesting Compositions Placing one composition inside another is called______.
a) Merging b) Mixing c) Compositing d) Nesting

Answer: d) Nesting
Explanation: Nesting in After Effects refers to placing one composition inside another
composition. This technique allows you to create complex animations and effects by combining
multiple compositions and treating them as a single layer within a parent composition.

Question 36: Precomposition Presupposition is…. a) Preparation before compositing b)

Effects applied before making a new composition c) Its nothing d) A nested composition used to
group layers within a composition

Answer: d) A nested composition used to group layers within a composition

Explanation: Precomposition in After Effects is the process of grouping multiple layers into a
single composition, which can then be treated as a single layer within a parent composition.
This helps in organizing complex projects and applying effects to multiple layers simultaneously.

Question 37: Master Composition In After Effects, the term used for a composition in which a
nested or precomposition is placed. a) Master Comp b) Slave Comp c) Parent Comp d) Child
Comp

Answer: a) Master Comp

Explanation: The term "Master Comp" is used in After Effects to refer to the main composition
in which a nested or precomposition is placed. It serves as the primary workspace where all
nested compositions and layers come together to create the final project.

Question 38: Downstream Composition A composition nested within another composition. a)

Downstream Comp b) Upstream Comp c) Comp before d) Comp after

Answer: a) Downstream Comp

Explanation: A downstream composition is a composition nested within another composition in

After Effects. It is called "downstream" because it is placed inside the parent composition and
inherits its properties and effects.

Question 39: Parent Composition A composition that contains a nested composition. a)

Downstream Comp b) Downstream Comp c) Comp before d) Comp after

Answer: b) Downstream Comp

Explanation: The correct answer should be "Parent Composition," which is the term used for a
composition that contains a nested composition. However, the options provided are not
accurate. Please consider this correction.

Question 40: Root Composition The most downstream composition in a nested composition.
a) Root Comp b) Base Comp c) Boot Comp d) First Comp
Answer: a) Root Comp

Explanation: The Root Comp is the most downstream composition in a nested composition. It
is the composition that is at the base of the nesting hierarchy, serving as the final output point
for all nested compositions.

Question 41: Motion Path The visual representation created when animating properties
change over space as well as time. a) Vector Path b) Relative Path c) Motion Path d) Active
Path

Answer: c) Motion Path

Explanation: A motion path is the visual representation of how properties like Position change
over space and time in After Effects. It shows the trajectory and movement of an animated layer
within the composition.

Question 42: Direction Change Point A point at which the direction of a path changes. a) Joint
b) Point c) Vortex d) Vertex

Answer: d) Vertex

Explanation: A vertex is a point at which the direction of a path changes in After Effects.
Vertices are used to define the shape and path of an object or motion within a composition.

Question 43: Connecting Line The line or curve that connects two vertices. a) Segment b)
Bridge c) Edges d) Loops

Answer: a) Segment

Explanation: A segment is the line or curve that connects two vertices in After Effects.
Segments form the edges of shapes and paths, creating the overall structure of an animated
object or motion path.

Question 44: Transition Frames Display An option in the Effect Controls panel that displays
the starting and ending frames of clips to which a transition has been applied. a) Show Actual
Sources b) Show initial/end frame c) Show Footage d) Show Used Footage

Answer: a) Show Actual Sources

Explanation: The "Show Actual Sources" option in the Effect Controls panel displays the
starting and ending frames of clips to which a transition has been applied. This helps in
visualizing and adjusting the transition effects between clips.

Question 45: In Point The marker that indicates the beginning of a layer in After Effects; in
Premiere Pro, it defines the first frame that is to be included in a sequence. a) In Point b) Out
Point c) Marker d) Pointer

Answer: a) In Point

Explanation: The In Point is a marker that indicates the beginning of a layer in After Effects. In
Premiere Pro, it defines the first frame to be included in a sequence, marking the start of a clip's
visible duration.

Question 46: Out Point Marks the end of a layer in After Effects; in Premiere Pro it defines the
last frame that is to be included in a sequence. a) In Point b) Out Point c) Marker d) Pointer

Answer: b) Out Point

Explanation: The Out Point marks the end of a layer in After Effects. In Premiere Pro, it defines
the last frame to be included in a sequence, indicating the end of a clip's visible duration.

Question 47: Clip Duration The span between the In point and Out point of a video clip. a)
Duration b) Runtime c) Cut d) Edit

Answer: a) Duration

Explanation: The duration is the span between the In point and Out point of a video clip. It
represents the total length of time that the clip will play within a sequence or composition.

Question 48: Duration Bar The bar that extends between the In point and the Out point on the
Timeline Panel. a) Layer Duration Bar b) Duration Indicator c) Time Indicator d) In/out length

Answer: a) Layer Duration Bar

Explanation: The Layer Duration Bar in After Effects extends between the In point and the Out
point on the Timeline Panel. It visually represents the duration of a layer and allows for easy
manipulation and adjustment of its timing.

Question 49: Trimming Layers In After Effects, changing the In and Out points on the Layer
panel or the Timeline panel. a) Cut b) Edit c) Trimming d) Slipping

Answer: c) Trimming

Explanation: Trimming in After Effects involves changing the In and Out points on the Layer
panel or the Timeline panel. This allows you to adjust the visible duration of a layer without
altering the original source footage.

Question 50: Speed Regulation A setting that regulates the speed of change as motion
advances toward and retreats from a keyframe. a) Influence b) Speed Duration c) Time Warp d)
Slow Motion
Answer: a) Influence

Explanation: Influence is a setting in After Effects that regulates the speed of change as motion
advances toward and retreats from a keyframe. It helps in creating smooth and natural
animations by controlling the ease in and ease out of keyframes.

Question 51: Value in Expressions If you type the word "value" in the expression area, what
happens? a) You have to follow it with a specific value b) It will act as though there is no
expression applied c) It will round to the nearest whole number d) It will tell you the CPU usage
of that property

Answer: b) It will act as though there is no expression applied

Explanation: Typing the word "value" in the expression area in After Effects acts as though
there is no expression applied. It returns the original, unaltered value of the property to which
the expression is applied.

Question 52: Wiggle Expression Parameter In the expression: wiggle(10,30), what does the
10 stand for? a) How many seconds to wait before wiggling b) The desired pixel value of the
property c) How many times per second the wiggle will happen d) How much the value will
randomly change

Answer: c) How many times per second the wiggle will happen

Explanation: In the wiggle expression wiggle(10,30), the first parameter (10) stands for how
many times per second the wiggle will happen. It determines the frequency of the random
motion applied to the property.

Question 53: Rendering and Shutting Down Which can be used to render an AE comp and
shut down your machine? a) An Expression b) A Script c) A Plug-in d) A Preset

Answer: b) A Script

Explanation: A script in After Effects can be used to render a composition and shut down your
machine. Scripts allow for automation of tasks, including rendering and post-render actions like
shutting down the computer.

Question 54: Alternative to "value" in Expressions Instead of typing "value" as a scale’s

expression, what else could you type to get the same result? a) scale b) value_scale c)
scale_value d) Property+Scale

Answer: a) scale

Explanation: Typing "scale" as an expression in place of "value" for a scale property will yield
the same result. Both refer to the current value of the scale property.
Question 55: Array in Expressions What is this? [value[0],value[1]] a) A Breakout Expression
b) A Cluster Expression c) A Reset Value d) An Array

Answer: d) An Array

Explanation: [value[0], value[1]] is an array in After Effects expressions. It represents the

values of the first and second components of a property, such as the X and Y values of a
position property.

Question 56: Calculator in Expression Area You can use the expression area as a calculator.
a) True b) False

Answer: a) True

Explanation: The expression area in After Effects can be used as a calculator. You can perform
mathematical operations and expressions will evaluate to the resulting values.

Question 57: Keyframe and Wiggle Expression If you add a wiggle expression to a keyframe
animated property, will it do both? a) No b) Yes

Answer: b) Yes

Explanation: If you add a wiggle expression to a keyframe animated property in After Effects, it
will perform both actions. The keyframes will define the primary animation, while the wiggle
expression adds random variations on top of it.

Question 58: Time-Saving Tool for Expressions What tool is used to save you loads of time
when creating expressions? a) Collapse Transform b) Pan Behind c) Proxies d) Pick Whip

Answer: d) Pick Whip

Explanation: The Pick Whip tool in After Effects saves time when creating expressions by
allowing you to link properties and create expressions without manually typing them. It simplifies
the process of connecting and controlling multiple properties.

Question 59: New Line in Expressions If you want to start a new line in an expression, you
should use... a) A Colon b) A Semicolon c) A Period d) A Close Bracket

Answer: b) A Semicolon

Explanation: To start a new line in an expression in After Effects, you should use a semicolon.
Semicolons separate different statements within an expression, allowing for better organization
and readability.

Question 60: Typing Expressions If you want to type in an expression, what do you have to
hold while clicking the stopwatch? a) Space b) Opt/Alt c) Shift d) Cmd/Ctrl

Answer: b) Opt/Alt

Explanation: To type an expression in After Effects, you need to hold the Opt (Mac) or Alt
(Windows) key while clicking the stopwatch icon. This enables the expression field for the
selected property, allowing you to enter custom expressions.

Section A: Multiple Choice Questions

(1X10=10 marks)

1. Interface and Basics:

Which panel in After Effects is primarily used for organizing and managing project
assets?
○ a) Effects
○ b) Project
○ c) Composition
○ d) Timeline
2. Composition and Layers:
In After Effects, what is the purpose of a composition?
○ a) To import media files into the project.
○ b) To apply effects and animations to layers.
○ c) To preview compositions and visual effects.
○ d) To export the final video project.
3. Animation Techniques:
Which property is commonly used to create motion animations in After Effects?
○ a) Scale
○ b) Opacity
○ c) Position
○ d) Rotation
4. Special Effects:
Which effect in After Effects is commonly used to create a simulated 3D effect?
○ a) Warp Stabilizer
○ b) Bulge
○ c) CC Lens
○ d) Drop Shadow
5. Keyframes and Timing:
What do keyframes represent in After Effects?
○ a) The starting point of an animation.
○ b) The ending point of an animation.
○ c) A snapshot of a layer's properties at a specific point in time.
 ○ d) A placeholder for media files within a composition.
6. Graph Editor:
What is the purpose of the Graph Editor in After Effects?
○ a) To preview compositions and visual effects.
○ b) To apply effects and animations to layers.
○ c) To create smooth, customized animation curves.
○ d) To organize and manage project assets.
7. Rendering and Exporting:
Which option in the Render Queue panel allows you to specify the output format
and settings for the final rendered video?
○ a) Output Module
○ b) Render Settings
○ c) Output To
○ d) Composition Settings
8. Rendering Process:
What does the term "rendering" refer to in After Effects?
○ a) Saving changes made to a project.
○ b) Exporting the final video.
○ c) Generating preview files for smoother playback.
○ d) Adjusting the playback speed of a clip.
9. Audio Effects:
Which panel in After Effects allows you to add and manipulate audio files?
○ a) Effects
○ b) Project
○ c) Timeline
○ d) Audio Mixer
10. Text Animation:
Which tool is used to create text animations in After Effects?
○ a) Text Box Tool
○ b) Type Tool
○ c) Pen Tool
○ d) Brush Tool

11. Interface and Basics

1. Which panel allows you to preview your composition in After Effects?
a) Timeline
b) Project
c) Composition
d) Preview
Answer: d) Preview
Explanation: The Preview panel allows you to play back your composition in
 real-time to see the applied effects and animations.
2. What is the purpose of the Timeline panel in After Effects?
a) To organize assets in your project.
b) To adjust the timing of layers and animations.
c) To modify layer properties.
d) Both b and c
Answer: d) Both b and c
Explanation: The Timeline panel is where you adjust the timing of your layers,
set keyframes, and modify properties like position, scale, rotation, and opacity.

12. Animation Techniques

1. Which shortcut toggles the visibility of the layer properties (e.g., Position, Scale)
in the Timeline?
a) Ctrl + L
b) U
c) P
d) Alt + T
Answer: b) U
Explanation: Pressing U reveals all the keyframed properties of a layer. To show specific
properties like position, use their shortcuts (e.g., P for Position).

2. What does the term "motion blur" refer to in After Effects?

a) Blurring the edges of a layer.
b) Creating a shadow effect.
c) Adding blur to fast-moving objects for realism.
d) Increasing the render time.
Answer: c) Adding blur to fast-moving objects for realism
Explanation: Motion blur simulates the natural blur seen in fast-moving objects to make
animations look smoother and more realistic.

13. Special Effects

1. Which effect is commonly used to create a glowing outline around objects?

a) Gaussian Blur
b) Drop Shadow
c) Outer Glow
d) Glow
Answer: d) Glow
Explanation: The Glow effect enhances bright areas of an object and creates a soft,
glowing outline.
2. Which property is used to create a "fade in" effect for text or layers?
 a) Scale
b) Position
c) Opacity
d) Rotation
Answer: c) Opacity
Explanation: By animating the Opacity property from 0% to 100%, you can create a
smooth fade-in effect.

Step-by-Step Guide for the Practical Tasks

Task 1: Basic Animation

Goal: Animate a logo moving across the screen and growing in size.

1. Create a New Project:

○ Open After Effects and go to File > New > New Project.
2. Import the Logo File:
○ Go to File > Import > File or press Ctrl + I.
○ Locate your logo image file and click Open.
3. Create a New Composition:
○ Drag the logo file from the Project panel to the New Composition button at the
bottom of the panel.
○ Alternatively, go to Composition > New Composition, name your composition,
and set resolution (e.g., 1920x1080, 30fps, 10 seconds).
4. Set Up Keyframe Animation for Position:
○ Select the logo layer in the timeline.
○ Press P to reveal the Position property.
○ Move the playhead to the start of the timeline (0:00).
○ Click the stopwatch icon next to Position to create the first keyframe.
○ Drag the logo to the left side of the frame.
○ Move the playhead to 2–3 seconds on the timeline.
○ Drag the logo to the right side of the frame to create another keyframe
automatically.
5. Set Up Keyframe Animation for Scale:
○ Press S to reveal the Scale property.
○ At the first position keyframe, click the stopwatch next to Scale and set the value
to, for example, 50%.
○ Move the playhead to the last position keyframe and increase the scale value to
 100%.
6. Smooth the Animation with Easing:
○ Select all the keyframes (click and drag over them or use Shift).
○ Right-click one of the selected keyframes, go to Keyframe Assistant > Easy
Ease.
○ Open the Graph Editor (icon in the timeline toolbar) to adjust the speed curve for
smoother motion.
7. Preview the Animation:
○ Press the spacebar to preview the animation.
○ Adjust the timing of keyframes if necessary by dragging them along the timeline.

Task 2: Visual Effects

Goal: Enhance a landscape video with fisheye distortion, glow effects, and snowfall.

1. Import the Video Clip:

○ Go to File > Import > File, select your video, and click Open.
2. Create a Composition:
○ Drag the video clip to the New Composition button.
3. Apply the CC Lens Effect:
○ Go to the Effects & Presets panel (Window > Effects & Presets).
○ Search for "CC Lens" and drag it onto the video layer in the timeline.
○ In the Effect Controls panel, adjust the Size and Convergence settings to
create a subtle fisheye effect.
4. Add a Glow Effect:
○ Search for "Glow" in the Effects & Presets panel.
○ Drag it onto the video layer.
○ In the Effect Controls, adjust the Glow Radius and Glow Intensity to enhance
bright areas.
5. Add a Snowfall Effect Using Particle World:
○ Search for "CC Particle World" in Effects & Presets and apply it to the layer.
○ In the Effect Controls, change the particle type to Faded Sphere.
○ Adjust settings like Birth Rate, Gravity, and Opacity to make a gentle snowfall
effect.
6. Preview and Adjust:
○ Use the spacebar to preview.
○ Fine-tune settings for all effects to match the desired look.

Task 3: Text Animation

Goal: Create a dynamic animated title sequence for a short film.

1. Create a New Composition:

○ Go to Composition > New Composition and set the duration to 5–10 seconds.
2. Add Text:
○ Select the Type Tool (T) from the toolbar.
○ Click in the composition window and type the film title.
○ Customize the text using the Character panel (Window > Character).
3. Animate Text Appearance:
○ Expand the text layer in the timeline and click the small arrow next to Text.
○ Click Animate > Opacity and set the opacity to 0%.
○ Move the playhead to 1 second, set the opacity to 100%, and keyframes will be
created automatically.
4. Add Secondary Animation:
○ Animate Scale or Rotation by pressing S or R and setting keyframes.
○ For example, scale the text from 80% to 100% over time for a subtle zoom effect.
5. Use Camera Tool for Movement:
○ Right-click in the timeline, go to New > Camera, and set up a camera layer.
○ Use the Orbit Camera Tool to pan or zoom through the text dynamically.
6. Add Background Music or Sound Effects:
○ Import audio using File > Import > File.
○ Drag the audio file to the timeline and sync it with the animations.
7. Preview and Refine:
○ Preview the sequence and adjust animations or timings as needed.

Task 4: Compositing

Goal: Blend multiple video clips with smooth transitions and color grading.

1. Import the Clips:

○ Import multiple video files using File > Import > File.
2. Create a Composition:
○ Drag all video clips into a new composition timeline. Arrange them sequentially.
3. Blend Clips with Masks:
○ Select a video layer, and choose the Pen Tool to create a mask around
overlapping areas.
○ Adjust the Feather property of the mask in the timeline to soften edges.
4. Apply Color Grading:
○ Search for "Lumetri Color" in the Effects & Presets panel.
○ Apply it to each layer and adjust Exposure, Contrast, and Saturation for
consistency.
 5. Add Transitions:
○ Search for transitions like Cross Dissolve or Fade to Black in Effects &
Presets.
○ Drag and drop transitions between clips in the timeline.
6. Preview and Export:
○ Preview the final composition by pressing spacebar.
○ Go to File > Export > Add to Render Queue or Add to Media Encoder Queue.
○ Select output settings and format, then render the video.

Task 5: Adding Motion Blur to Animation

Goal: Enhance the realism of moving objects by applying motion blur.

1. Open an Existing Composition:

○ Use the animation you created in Task 1 (Basic Animation).
2. Enable Motion Blur for the Composition:
○ In the Timeline, look for the "Motion Blur" column (shaped like three small
overlapping circles).
○ Click the Enable Motion Blur checkbox for the moving logo layer.
3. Enable Global Motion Blur:
○ At the top of the Timeline panel, click the Enable Motion Blur button (icon of
three overlapping circles) to activate motion blur for the entire composition.
4. Preview the Animation:
○ Press spacebar to preview. Notice how the moving logo appears smoother and
more realistic.

Task 6: Using Track Matte for Masking

Goal: Use a shape layer as a mask for text.

1. Create a New Composition:

○ Go to Composition > New Composition, set the resolution and duration.
2. Add Text:
○ Use the Type Tool (T) to create a title. Position the text at the center.
3. Create a Mask Shape:
○ Go to Layer > New > Shape Layer.
○ Use the Rectangle Tool to draw a rectangle that covers the text.
4. Apply Track Matte:
○ Place the shape layer above the text layer in the Timeline.
○ Select the text layer, go to the Track Matte column, and choose Alpha Matte
[Shape Layer].
○ The text will now appear only where the shape layer is visible.
 5. Animate the Mask:
○ Select the shape layer, press P to reveal Position.
○ Set keyframes to animate the mask moving across the text, creating a dynamic
reveal.
6. Preview and Refine:
○ Preview the effect and adjust timing as needed.

Task 7: Green Screen Compositing (Chroma Keying)

Goal: Replace the background of a green screen video.

1. Import Video and Background:

○ Import a green screen video and a new background image or video into After
Effects.
2. Create a Composition:
○ Drag the green screen footage onto the New Composition button.
3. Apply the Keylight Effect:
○ Select the green screen video layer.
○ Go to Effects & Presets, search for "Keylight," and apply it to the layer.
4. Remove the Green Background:
○ In the Effect Controls panel, use the Eyedropper Tool to select the green color
from the footage.
○ Adjust settings like Screen Gain and Screen Matte to clean up edges.
5. Add the Background:
○ Drag the new background layer below the green screen footage in the Timeline.
6. Preview and Adjust:
○ Use the Mask Tool or Spill Suppression options if needed for better results.
7. Render the Final Output:
○ Preview and export the composition using the Render Queue or Media
Encoder.

Task 8: Creating a Simple Looping GIF Animation

Goal: Create a seamless looping GIF of a bouncing ball.

1. Create a New Composition:

○ Set the duration to 5 seconds and create a composition.
2. Add a Shape Layer for the Ball:
○ Go to Layer > New > Shape Layer.
○ Use the Ellipse Tool to draw a circle.
3. Animate the Ball’s Movement:
○ Select the ball layer, press P for Position.
○ Create keyframes to make the ball move up and down (bouncing effect).
4. Add Squash and Stretch:
○ Press S for Scale and create keyframes for the ball squashing slightly when it hits
the ground and stretching when it moves up.
5. Loop the Animation:
○ Right-click the ball layer in the Timeline, go to Pre-compose.
○ Apply the Enable Time Remapping option (Layer > Time > Enable Time
Remapping).
○ Add an expression to loop the animation: loopOut()
6. Export as GIF:
○ Go to File > Export > Add to Render Queue.
○ Choose Photoshop as the output module, then save as a GIF in Photoshop.