One of the most powerful but underused features in After Effects is expressions, which can be used to animate layer properties with code, as compared to explicitly keyframing every value in the Timeline. One of the strengths of expressions is the ability to have multiple parameters and layers follow the lead of a master layer or controller effect, making it much easier to coordinate complex animations and quickly accommodate client changes. In this introduction, Chris Meyer shows how to let After Effects do most of the work by creating simple but very useful expressions that can be put to work on a wide variety of jobs. Exercise files are included with the course.

1. Basic Expressions
Keyframes and client changes
Creating an expression
Managing expressions

2. Modifying Expressions
Simple math
Coordinating simple properties
Clockwork

3. Expressions Worth Learning
Linear interpolation
Looping
The wiggle expression

4. Controlling Expressions
Expression controls
Master controls
Driven by sound

5. Quizzlers
Quizzler challenges
Quizzler 1 solution: Touching wheels
Quizzler 2 solution: Mastering drop shadows

6. Idea Corners
Idea corners 1: Manic blur
Idea corners 2: Flashing lights
Idea corners 3: Wandering electric arcs