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Comparing interpolation methods


    All interpolation methods provided by After Effects are based on the Bezier interpolation method, which provides direction handles so that you can control the transitions between keyframes. Interpolation methods that don't use direction handles are constrained versions of Bezier interpolation, and are convenient for certain tasks.

    To learn more about how different temporal interpolation methods affect layer properties, experiment by setting up at least three keyframes with different values for a temporal property such as Rotation, and change the interpolation methods for all keyframes as you view the Value graph in the Timeline window.

    To learn more about how different spatial interpolation methods affect a motion path, experiment by setting up three keyframes for Position with different values on a motion path, and change the interpolation methods as you view the motion path in the Composition window. For more information, see Determining where to set and modify keyframes and Adding keyframes to a Value graph.

    In the following descriptions of interpolation methods, the effect of each method is described as if you had applied it to all the keyframes for a layer property. This is done to clarify the examples. In practice, you can apply any available interpolation method to any layer property keyframe.

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