Recently I came across an interesting article about working methods in After Effects, where the issues of organizing the workspace, choosing tools, and even complex techniques such as masking and exporting were discussed in detail. I became curious: does all this really help to work faster and better? I checked — I’m sharing my impressions.

Organizing the workspace is the key to speed

The article said that a properly configured workspace can dramatically affect the speed of editing and animation. I decided to conduct an experiment — I allocated separate panels for layers, timeline, effects, and previews. I created a preset for my tasks.

📌 Result:
It became much more convenient to work — fewer clicks, less confusion. I especially appreciated the fixed panels for masks and effects.

Even a simple reorganization of the interface can save tens of minutes on each project.

Tools: Which Brushes Work and When

The article had an interesting section about the difference between pixel, live, and vector brushes. I decided to try each type out by creating different animation fragments.

• Pixel brushes are great for textures and painterly effects.
• Live brushes add realistic dynamics, such as when painting light or water.
• Vector brushes are perfect for graphics that need to be scaled or exported to SVG.

📌 Result:
The combination of brushes really works. Understanding when to use each type gives you more freedom in the project.

Illustration from scratch – is it possible without Illustrator?

The author of the article claimed that you can create a full-fledged illustration right in After Effects. I was skeptical, but decided to give it a try. I used shape layers, feathers, and vector masks.

📌 Result:
I can’t say that it will replace Illustrator, but if you need a simple graphic element, yes, it can. Especially useful for quick integration into animation.

Blending modes, masks, and export: delving into advanced techniques

I took a real project — a promo for a YouTube channel — and decided to use blending modes and multi-layer masking. I also tried several export options: for social networks, for the web, for presentations.

📌 Result:
Blending modes add liveliness, especially when working with textures and light. And exporting with presets saves time and eliminates the headache of sizing.

The tips from the article really work

Based on what I read in the After Effects review, I expected a couple of useful ideas. What I ended up with was a redesigned approach to work — with clear organization, improved tools, and neat export.

If you work in After Effects and feel stuck in a rut, review your environment and habits. The article I relied on contains many useful recommendations, and, as practice has shown, they really work.