Pencil to Pixels - Animation Terms

Key drawings = keys = extremes = circled on the chart.

The most important positions in an action.

1 17

Breakdown drawing = breakdown = aka passing position

(but only for walks and runs) = in parentheses or underlined
on the chart.

(9) The halfway point between two keys.

In-between drawings = in-betweens = just numbered on

the chart, i.e., not circled or underlined.
3 5 7 11 13 15
The drawings in-between the keys and the breakdowns.

1 (9) 17
3 5 7 11 13 15
chart = horizontal or vertical diagram that specifies how many
drawings are to be made and their relative positions.
x-sheet = vertical diagram that defines how the drawings are to be filmed and syncrhonized with the soundtrack.

scrubbing = moving the playhead back and forth in Flash to test the animation. The digital equivalent to
‘flipping’ or ‘rolling’ your drawings.
ease out (slow out) = action begins slowly then speeds up.*
ease in (slow in) = action slows down.*

* These are the standard definitions used by animators. However, the meaning of these two terms is reversed in Flash. Go figure.
Pencils to Pixels - Charting

1 (9) 17

3 5 7 11 13 15

Pendulum swing, even spacing, no easing out or in.

1 (9) 17
7 11
5 13
3 15

Pendulum swing, uneven spacing, easing out and in.

1 (9) 17
7 11
5 13
3 15
2 16

Pendulum swing, uneven spacing, easing out and in.

The drawings reflect the spacing (geometry) of the chart. Always think ‘halves.’
Work from keys to breakdowns to in-betweens.
More drawings mean slower, smoother movement.
Ease out at start of action and ease into stasis.
Pencils to Pixels - Charting Exercises

Name:

Chart these drawings. Draw these charts.

Draw and chart your own sequence.