Vectary’s animation system is based on keyframes, allowing for precise control over object transformations within a structured timeline. The animation workflow is built around a timeline where keyframes define changes over time.

To animate objects, switch to Animate mode.

Timeline

The timeline is the primary interface for managing animations in Vectary. It provides a visual representation of keyframes along a linear time axis, allowing precise control over animation timing and transitions. The timeline enables to set, move, and edit keyframes, adjust interpolation, playback type, and structure animations efficiently.

<aside> <img src="/icons/info-alternate_gray.svg" alt="/icons/info-alternate_gray.svg" width="40px" /> The height of the timeline can be adjusted by dragging its edge to expand or contract the view

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Master Handlers & Keyframes

The timeline displays only two keyframes by default - the first and last - called Master Handlers.

All intermediate keyframes are contained within the master group and can be accessed by clicking the expand icon or double-clicking the grey line.

master group

master group

intermediate keyframes inside master group

Dragging a Master Handler scales all keyframes proportionally

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Keyframes

To record data into a keyframe, move the playhead to the desired position and transform the object on the canvas. Each transformation (position, rotation, scale) is automatically recorded into a keyframe at the playhead's position.
To overwrite an existing keyframe, position the playhead over the keyframe and modify the object's transformation. The new transformation values will replace the previous ones in that keyframe.
Keyframes can be moved individually or in groups. To select multiple keyframes, either hold Shift and click on them or drag with the left mouse button to select a range of keyframes.

Interpolation

Interpolation controls how animation transitions between keyframes.

To change interpolation, select at least one keyframe and choose the desired method.

Available interpolation types:

Ease Auto — Automatically adjusts smoothing for the best transition.