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After Effects

Create Null Object Shortcut in After Effects

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Ctrl
Alt
Shift
Y
What It Does

Instantly creates a new Null Object in your composition to act as an invisible master controller for other layers.

Pro Workflow Insight

Null Objects are the absolute backbone of advanced motion tracking, camera rigs, and complex character animation. Using this shortcut keeps you in the creative flow without digging through the top menu.

Step-by-Step

While your composition panel is active, press Ctrl + Alt + Shift + Y (Windows) or Cmd + Option + Shift + Y (Mac). A new Null layer will appear at the top of your timeline.

Time Saved

15s per

Estimated time saved with each use of this shortcut.

More for After Effects

Easy Ease
Instantly smooths keyframes to create natural motion without manual graph editing.
F9
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Pre-compose
Groups selected layers into a new composition.
CtrlShiftC
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Open Motion Tracker
Opens the Tracker panel to begin motion tracking footage.
Window Menu
View

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