Project & Layer Tools October 30, 2026

How to Organise a Messy Timeline in After Effects

Learn how to clean up a messy After Effects timeline by renaming, colouring and labelling layers in bulk with Layer Sitter.

A messy After Effects timeline full of unnamed, uncoloured layers slows everything down. Getting it organised in bulk is a quick win. Here is how with Layer Sitter.

Why organisation matters

When you can read a timeline at a glance, editing and troubleshooting are far faster — especially on complex comps.

Step 1 — Assess the comp

Open the busy composition you want to tidy.

Step 2 — Bulk rename

Give layers clear, consistent names in one pass.

Step 3 — Colour and label

Apply label colours to group related layers.

Step 4 — Arrange

Order layers so the stack makes sense.

The tool for the job

Get Layer Sitter on NexTools.

FAQ

Can I label many layers at once?

Yes, labelling and colouring work in bulk.

Will it change my animation?

No, it only organises — it does not alter your motion.