How do I add effects in Adobe After Effects?

You can add effects in Adobe After Effects by either using the Effects menu or the Effects & Presets panel.

Here's a breakdown of both methods:

• Using the Effects Menu:

  1. Select the layer in the Timeline panel to which you want to apply the effect.
  2. Go to the "Effect" menu at the top of the screen.
  3. Browse the categories and choose the desired effect. Once selected, the effect will be applied to the layer and its properties will appear in the Effect Controls panel.

• Using the Effects & Presets Panel:

  1. Locate the "Effects & Presets" panel (usually on the right side of the interface). If you can't see it, go to "Window" > "Effects & Presets".
  2. Search for the effect you want to use by typing its name in the search bar, or browse through the categorized folders.
  3. Once you find the effect, you can apply it in one of three ways:
     • Drag and drop the effect directly onto the layer in the Composition panel.
     • Drag and drop the effect onto the layer in the Timeline panel.
     • Select the layer in the Timeline panel and double-click the effect in the Effects & Presets panel.

After applying an effect using either method, you can adjust its settings in the "Effect Controls" panel. This panel displays all the adjustable properties for the selected effect on the selected layer.