How do I trim a video in Adobe After Effects?

To trim a video in Adobe After Effects, you can split the clip and delete the unwanted sections, or use the Alt (Option on Mac) and bracket keys to directly trim to the playhead.

Here's a breakdown of the methods:

• Splitting the Clip:

  1. Position the playhead at the point where you want to cut the clip.
  2. Press Ctrl+Shift+D (Windows) or Cmd+Shift+D (Mac) to split the layer at the playhead. This creates two separate layers. Alternatively, you can use Edit > Split Layer.
  3. Select the excess clip section you wish to remove.
  4. Press the Delete key to remove the unwanted portion.

• Trimming to the Playhead:

  1. Position the playhead at the desired endpoint of the clip.
  2. Hold down the Alt key (Windows) or Option key (Mac).
  3. Press the left bracket [ key to trim the beginning of the clip to the playhead. Or press the right bracket ] key to trim the end of the clip to the playhead.