**Keyframes** are markers on the timeline that lock a parameter's value at a specific point. 

For example, if you set the X position of a layer to 0 at the first keyframe and 100 at the second, After Effects will automatically generate a smooth transition between 0 and 100, creating the animation.

In this chapter, **you've learned**:
- The basics of using keyframes to create animations in After Effects;
- How to set keyframes for various properties and adjust timing;
- How to use the graph editor to create smooth transitions for dynamic and polished animations.

### Mentioned shortcuts

## Homework
Create an animation of a star from the previous chapter, making it follow a square trajectory with ease-in and ease-out, while also rotating around itself.    
The result will look like this:

What is the function of keyframes in After Effects?

How do you create a keyframe for a parameter in After Effects?


This course provides a comprehensive introduction to Adobe After Effects, covering essential tools and techniques for animation, motion graphics, and visual effects. You'll engage in precise practice, learning to create full animations and advanced transitions in dedicated chapters. By the end, you'll have the skills to craft dynamic animations and high-quality video content through hands-on projects.

You'll explore the core interface and functionality of After Effects, learning how to navigate compositions, layers, and essential tools. You'll also learn how to organize your projects effectively and gain a strong understanding of basic transformations, laying the groundwork for more complex animation tasks.

This section focuses on mastering key animation principles, such as keyframing and easing, along with learning to create a complete animation on a real example in a dedicated chapter and making motion graphics transitions in another.

Now you'll explore more advanced features such as chroma keying with the Keylight effect, using masks for refining effects, Adjustment Layers for applying effects to multiple layers, and pre-composing for better project organization. Additionally, you'll practice creating professional transitions, perfecting techniques like zooms and whip pans, with an emphasis on precise execution.

Keyframes

Mentioned shortcuts

Homework

1. What is the function of keyframes in After Effects?

2. How do you create a keyframe for a parameter in After Effects?