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How to use multiple workspaces in After Effects

After Effects comes with different workspace layouts depending on what you’re doing — animation, color, effects, you name it. Switch between them based on your task.

Steps to use multiple workspaces

Go to the top menu and click Window → Workspace. You’ll see options like Animation, Color, and Effects.

After Effects Window menu with different workspace options visible

Choose one and the panels rearrange to fit that type of work.

Switching between Default and Text workspaces in After Effects

You can even save your own custom workspace if you find a layout you love. Just go to Window → Workspace → Save as New Workspace, give it a clear name like “Vertical Projects” or “VFX,” and you can jump back to that exact setup anytime.

One more thing

If you’re switching between different types of work often, save custom workspaces for each one. Takes 30 seconds to set up, saves hours of panel rearranging later.

Related how-tos

How to reset workspace in After Effects
How to dock and undock panels in After Effects
How to use the toolbar in After Effects

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