Graph Editor
Fine-tune animation curves with the Graph Editor. Control speed and acceleration for professional motion.
Animation
Shortcut: Shift+F3Advanced15 min readQuick Reference
Graph Editor
Adobe After EffectsKeyboard Shortcut
Shift+F3key
Where to Find
Click the Graph Editor icon at the top of the Timeline panel (looks like a curved line graph) or press Shift+F3 to toggl
Best Used For
- ▸Creating smooth, natural animations
- ▸Fixing robotic linear motion
- ▸Fine-tuning easing and timing
- ▸Professional motion design workflows
Advanced⏱ 2-4 hours to master
Key Settings
Speed Graph: View velocityValue Graph: View propertiesEasy Ease: F9 shortcut
The Graph Editor gives you precise control over animation curves. Instead of linear, robotic motion, you can create smooth, natural animations that feel professional. This is what separates amateur from professional motion design.
Where to Find
Click the Graph Editor icon at the top of the Timeline panel (looks like a curved line graph) or press Shift+F3 to toggle between layer bars and graph view.
How to Use
- Value Graph: Shows the actual value of the property over time
- Speed Graph: Shows how fast the property is changing over time
- Handles: Click and drag Bezier handles to adjust curves
- Zoom: Use the zoom slider at the bottom or Ctrl+scroll to zoom in/out
- Auto-zoom: Click the "Auto-Zoom Graph" button to fit the curve to the view
Pro Tips
- Use the Speed Graph to control easing — steep curves mean fast motion, flat curves mean slow
- Edit multiple keyframes at once by selecting them all before adjusting handles
- Right-click in the Graph Editor to change between Value and Speed graphs
- Press F9 first, then fine-tune in the Graph Editor for professional results