Learn to Animate: Classical 2D Animation for Beginners Course Syllabus

Overview: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to classical 2D animation using After Effects, guiding beginners from foundational principles to a complete animated scene. Over approximately 9 hours of structured learning, you'll explore core animation concepts, hands-on techniques, and professional workflows. Each module builds on the last, combining theory with practical exercises, culminating in a polished final project. Designed for aspiring animators and motion-graphics artists, this course emphasizes real-world skills applicable to film, advertising, and digital media.

Module 1: Animation Foundations & Software Setup

Estimated time: 1 hours

• Twelve principles of animation overview
• UI tour of After Effects (or equivalent)
• Set up your workspace
• Import assets and create your first animated bounce

Module 2: Keyframes & Timing

Estimated time: 1.5 hours

• Setting keyframes
• Understanding frame rates
• Timing charts
• Spacing vs. timing

Module 3: Easing & Graph Editor Techniques

Estimated time: 1 hours

• Ease In/Out
• Custom bezier curves
• Velocity graphs
• Refine bounce animation using the graph editor

Module 4: Squash, Stretch & Overlap

Estimated time: 1 hours

• Exaggeration principles
• Squash & stretch mechanics
• Secondary motion
• Apply squash & stretch to a character limb

Module 5: Motion Paths & Puppet Tools

Estimated time: 1 hours

• Creating and editing motion paths
• Using puppeteer pins for organic movement
• Animate a character walking along a curved path
• Use puppet-pin joints for natural motion

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 2 hours

• Storyboard and plan a short animated scene
• Layer your scene with character, background, and effects
• Final polish including simple sound sync

Prerequisites

• Basic familiarity with After Effects or similar animation software
• Access to Adobe After Effects or equivalent software
• Simple graphics or character assets (provided or self-created)

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Grasp core animation principles: timing, squash & stretch, anticipation, and follow-through
• Master keyframing workflows in After Effects
• Create smooth motion using easing, motion paths, and graph-editor adjustments
• Design and animate characters with simple rigs and puppeting tools
• Export polished animations for web, broadcast, and social media