# after effects user interface The After Effects interface can be a bit intimidating when you first open it. The workspace is a layout of different panels that can be moved around and rearranged as needed. This is the Default layout… ![[AEinterface.png]] **1** - **pull-down menus** **2** - **main toolbar** - the basic tools **3** - **different workspaces** - clicking these will change the interface layout **4** - **project bin** - where you store all your asset files, such as images, video, and audio files **5** - **composition space** - working document area where you see the overall composition and move elements around **6** - **panels dock** - a column of different panels and menus with extra tools **7** - **timeline** - where you place your elements in layers to build your timing and animation --- ### workflow and the interface As you start working on a project and working in the different areas, it will begin to make sense quite quickly. - You load your project files into the **project bin** - Individual elements are brought into the **timeline** where they can be stacked in layers - The **composition space** lets you move elements around on the screen - The **timeline** lets you move elements over time - The **menus**, **toolbar**, and **panels** are used to manipulate your elements --- Learn more… --- tags: #aftereffects #resources home: [[! after effects]]