How to Use Essentially

Basics

1. Select properties in the Timeline (or just select layers for all transform properties)
2. Click the Expression Controllers or Essential Properties button

Expression Controllers Mode

Creates expression control effects on each layer and links your selected properties via expressions.

• Adds Sliders, Points, Colors, Angles, or Checkboxes depending on property type
• Controls appear in the layer's Effect Controls panel
• Existing keyframes are transferred to the new controls

To remove: select linked properties and click again.

Essential Properties Mode

Precomposes selected layers and exposes properties to the Essential Graphics Panel.

• Automatically crops precomp to content bounds
• Enables Collapse Transformations on the precomp layer
• Preserves parenting, track mattes, and blend modes
• Properties appear in Layer Contents > Essential Properties

To remove: select Essential Properties and click again.

Tips

• Use Expression Controllers when you want quick access to buried properties without changing comp structure
• Use Essential Properties for instancing precomps and Motion Graphics Templates (.mogrts)