Learn Non-Scary Adobe After Effects: Masking & Motion Basics

Tim Wilson uses four modules to connect pre-compositions, masks, track mattes and object or text animation. Projects provide opportunities to isolate elements and coordinate transformations. The course develops intermediate techniques for combining layers rather than beginning again with the application’s basic interface.

What you will learn

• Isolate elements using masks and mattes
• Create and edit motion paths
• Coordinate animated text and transformations

Who this suits

The provider lists Intermediate and explicitly expects basic After Effects knowledge. Comfort with simple keyframes and compositions is useful before attempting the more involved masking and text exercises.

Before you enroll

The six-hour estimate includes activities. Software is separate. Preview masks throughout the entire clip rather than judging a single frame; movement can expose edges that looked acceptable at the start. Name pre-compositions and assets clearly so later adjustments remain manageable.

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Put it into practice

Create a short original text reveal using a matte and a motion path. Inspect the beginning, middle and end at full size, then correct any visible edges or abrupt transitions.

Source and review

This overview is based on the provider's published information, checked on 12 October 2026. It is an editorial assessment, not a claim that we completed the resource. Time filters are approximate study ranges; projects and exercises can take longer.

View the curriculum and current access options at Coursera.

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