Text tracking is an effect that consists of the dynamic adjustments of the spacing between characters in a text. It has two options: expand and contract, which dynamically adjust the spacing between characters to either increase or decrease the width of the text block in relation to a central focal point.
More specifically, this is what the options do:
- Expand. When this option is selected, the animation gradually increases the spacing between characters in the text. This causes the text to expand outward from its central focal point, effectively widening the text block. Visually, it creates a sense of spreading out or stretching the text.
- Contract. Conversely, when the contract option is chosen, the animation reduces the spacing between characters. As a result, the text gradually contracts towards its central focal point, narrowing the text block. This gives the impression of the text compressing or tightening around its center.
How to Use Text Tracking¹
- Add a text layer to your creative.
- Select the text layer and open the Timeline.
- Click where you'd like to apply² the animation:
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Build in.
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Build out.
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- Select Tracking.
- To make changes to the preset, head over to Edit, where you can:
- Choose between Contract or Expand³.
- Customize the Ease, Tween type, Letter spacing, or Alpha.
- Click Play to see the animation in action.
Note¹: The Text Tracking effect works best on single lines of text.
Note²: This effect can only be applied to the Build in or Build out animations.
Note³: When using Expand, be aware of the font size & letter spacing properties of the text. Too much letter spacing can cause the text to flip.