Keyframes, In-Betweens & Tweening?
tip: Define each and give a one-line example. “A keyframe marks a major pose; in-betweens connect them; tweening automates the process.”
A practical guide for editors. Learn what keyframes do, how in-betweens are drawn, and how tweening automates motion — with examples, workflow checklists, and quick answers.
Author: Ayush Bisht — DehraFlicks • Updated November 2025
Quick Summary (for revision)
- Keyframe: main pose or property value at a specific frame/time.
- In-between: frames drawn/generated between keyframes for smoothness.
- Tweening: software interpolation that auto-creates in-between frames.
Why these concepts matter in animation
Understanding keyframes, in-betweens, and tweening is crucial before mastering After Effect or editing. These concepts appear in every animation course and are used daily by motion designers.
Definitions — simple and accurate
Keyframe
A saved value of any animatable property. Keyframes mark extremes or story poses — not every frame, but essential points of action.
In-between (Inbetweening)
Frames between keyframes that define motion smoothness. Historically hand-drawn, now often software-assisted.
Tweening (Interpolation)
The digital process of automatically generating in-betweens using mathematical interpolation.
Practical guide — how to use keyframes efficiently
Good animation doesn’t rely on thousands of keyframes. It relies on smart timing and spacing. Learn to mark story poses, not every move.
See also: aspect ratio and composition for how framing interacts with key poses.
In-Betweens — manual vs automatic
In-betweening in 2D animation is often artistic. While Adobe Animate can generate tweens, complex actions still need hand-crafted in-betweens for realism.
Tweening and interpolation — what software does for you
- Linear: uniform motion.
- Ease-in/out: natural acceleration/deceleration.
- Bezier: custom easing for organic motion.
- Hold: freeze until next key (used in blocking).
Workflow from blocking to polish
- Analyze reference and mark poses.
- Block keyframes (use step mode).
- Add breakdowns and in-betweens.
- Tween mechanical motions.
- Polish curves and timing.
Example — walk cycle (exam answer format)
“Set keyframes at contact, passing and up positions. Add in-betweens to control speed and overlap. Apply ease-in/out for natural motion.”
FAQs (short answers)
- Difference between keyframe and breakdown?
- Keyframes define extremes; breakdowns describe motion paths.
- What is step interpolation?
- No in-betweening between frames — used in blocking.
- Should easing always be used?
- Yes, to avoid robotic motion.