Scale Tool
Resize layers proportionally or independently on X/Y axes. Constrain proportions by holding Shift.
Transform
Shortcut: SBeginner4 min readQuick Reference
Scale Tool
Adobe After EffectsKeyboard Shortcut
Skey
Where to Find
Select a layer and press S to reveal Scale properties. Found under Transform > Scale in the layer properties.
Best Used For
- ▸Resizing layers for fitting within compositions
- ▸Creating zoom-in and zoom-out effects
- ▸Animating growing or shrinking reveals
- ▸Flipping or mirroring layers with negative values
Beginner-Friendly⏱ 15-30 minutes to master
Key Settings
Constrain: Chain icon toggleWidth / Height: Percentage %Negative Scale: Flip / Mirror
Scale lets you control the size of your layers, from tiny elements to full-screen visuals. Combined with keyframes, Scale creates dynamic zooms, dramatic reveals, and smooth size transitions. It's an essential tool for everything from logo animations to full-screen motion graphics.
Where to Find
Select a layer and press S to reveal Scale properties. Found under Transform > Scale in the layer properties.
How to Use
- Reveal: Press S to show Scale keyframes for selected layers
- Adjust: Change the percentage values to resize the layer
- Constrain: Click the chain icon to lock or unlock proportional scaling
- Keyframes: Click the stopwatch to animate scale changes over time
Pro Tips
- Hold Shift while dragging a corner handle in the Composition Panel for proportional scaling
- Use negative scale values to flip or mirror a layer
- Scale from 100% to 0% for a shrinking effect, or 0% to 100% for a growing reveal
- Combine scale with position for dynamic entrances and exits