Shape Layers & Parenting are both essential tools when learning the basics of After Effects. Shape Layers can be used for very simple OR very complex designs, and parenting layers or properties together gives you tons of control over the movement in a variety of ways.
This series of five videos gives you an Introduction to Animation in After Effects, taught by Michael Jones. Mograph Mentor recently joined the School of Motion family, which means more content for us to share with you!

In the next video we'll create an awesome eye reveal animation.

After Effects Kickstart
https://www.schoolofmotion.com/course...

Chapter Markers:
00:01:19 Ways to Create a Shape Layer
00:03:15 Positioning the Shapes
00:04:07 Bezier Paths
00:05:37 Shape Fills and Strokes
00:09:26 After Effects Kickstart Testimonial
00:10:07 2.2 Parenting Introduction
00:10:42 Parenting Explains
00:11:30 Null Objects
00:12:22 The Pick Whip
00:13:30 Layer vs Property Level Parenting
00:15:19 Expression Controls