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How to organize assets in the Project panel in After Effects

Once you start importing lots of files, the Project panel gets messy fast. Keeping it organized makes your whole workflow smoother and faster.

Steps to organize assets in the Project panel

In the Project panel, right-click and hit New Folder. Name it “Footage,” “Audio,” “Images,” whatever makes sense.

After Effects Project panel with a New Folder menu option

Drag your imported files into the right folders. You can make as many folders and subfolders as you need.

After Effects Project panel with folders organizing video and image assets

Keep your compositions at the top level so you don’t lose them in the mess. This panel is yours to organize however works for you.

One more thing

Use short, clear names. Instead of “IMG_47392.mov,” rename it to “Drone Shot”. Your future self will appreciate it.

Related how-tos

How to create a new composition in After Effects
How to set composition resolution, fps, and duration in After Effects
How to import video and images into After Effects

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