Learn how to create and animate a dotted line in After Effects using shape layers, stroke settings, and simple animation techniques.
Introduction
Animating a dotted line is a simple yet effective technique often used in motion graphics, maps, UI animations, and explainer videos. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to create a dotted line and animate it smoothly using shape layer properties in After Effects.
Step 1: Create a New Composition
Create a new composition with the resolution and frame rate you need for your project.
Step 2: Draw the Line
Select the Pen Tool (G) and draw a line in the Composition panel.
Set Fill to None
Choose a Stroke color
Set the Stroke Width as needed
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Step 3: Adjust Stroke Settings
Open the shape layer properties and go to Stroke settings:
Set Line Cap to Round Cap
Set Line Join to Round Join
Under Dashes, click the “+” button to enable dashed strokes
Step 4: Create and Animate the Dots
Adjust the dash settings:
Set Dash to 71
Set Wave Amount to 60 (optional)
Animate the Offset parameter:
0 at the start of the composition
770 around the middle of the composition
This creates the animated dotted line movement.

Step 5: Customize the Look
Add effects from Effects & Presets, such as Glow, to enhance the dotted line.
Experiment with colors
Adjust the stroke width
Try multiple Glow effects for a stronger visual style
Step 6: Preview the Animation
Preview your animation and fine-tune the timing and visual style as needed.
Conclusion
Animating a dotted line in After Effects is a fast and flexible technique that works well for many motion design scenarios. By animating the Stroke Offset and customizing effects, you can easily create clean and dynamic dotted line animations.
