How do I make an adjustment layer transparent in After Effects?

To make an adjustment layer transparent in After Effects, you need to adjust its opacity. Here's how:

1. Select the Adjustment Layer: In your Timeline panel, click on the adjustment layer you want to make transparent.

2. Access the Opacity Property: There are two ways to do this:

   • Using the Effect Controls Panel: If the Effect Controls panel is open (Window > Effect Controls), you'll see the "Opacity" setting directly available.

   • Using the Keyboard Shortcut: The quickest method is to simply select the adjustment layer in the timeline and press the T key on your keyboard. This will reveal only the Opacity property for that layer.

3. Adjust the Opacity:

   • Click and drag the number next to "Opacity" in the Effect Controls panel or on the Timeline to change its value. You can also click the number and type in a specific value. A value of 100% means the adjustment layer is fully opaque (completely visible), while 0% means it is completely transparent (invisible). Any value in between will make the adjustment layer partially transparent, allowing the layers underneath to show through to varying degrees.

In summary, adjusting the Opacity property of an adjustment layer controls its transparency in After Effects. This process is identical to adjusting the opacity of any other layer in After Effects, such as footage or solid layers.