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How to track matte in After Effects

Track mattes let one layer reveal another — perfect for text reveals, transitions, and creative masking effects without drawing paths.

Steps to track matte

Select the layer you want to reveal (like a video or image). In the Timeline panel, find the Track Matte column. Pick any layer in your comp as the matte source from the dropdown.

Track Matte buttons visible in the After Effects timeline for matte assignment

Choose Alpha (based on transparency) or Luma (based on brightness) depending on what your matte layer is.

Choosing a matte layer for a track matte in the After Effects timeline

If you need the opposite effect, use the Invert button right next to it.

Composition viewer in After Effects showing a layer revealed using a track matte

One more thing

If you don’t see the Track Matte column, click the Toggle Switches/Modes button at the bottom of the timeline to enable it (or press F4).

Related how-tos

How to use luma mattes in After Effects
How to use alpha mattes in After Effects
How to use adjustment layers in After Effects

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