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How to use the graph editor in After Effects

The graph editor gives you full control over the speed and smoothness of your animations — it’s where the real polish happens.

Steps to use the graph editor

Select a layer with keyframes and click the Graph Editor button in the timeline. You’ll see your animation curve displayed.

After Effects timeline with the Graph Editor button highlighted

Switch between Value and Speed Graphs using the dropdown at the bottom — they show different things.

After Effects showing the Graph Editor with animated keyframes displayed

Drag the bezier handles on your keyframes to smooth, speed up, or slow down motion however you want.

Editing keyframes in the Graph Editor in After Effects for smoother animation

One more thing

If your graph looks flat or weird, you might be in the wrong mode — toggle between Value and Speed graphs until you see curves that make sense for your animation.

Related how-tos

How to add keyframes in After Effects
How to use easing for smooth animation in After Effects
How to stretch keyframes in time in After Effects

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