Bring your video to life: How to create smooth animations

In Mathematics Education, the way we present information is almost as important as the information itself. A graph that draws itself, a formula that slides smoothly to the center of the screen, or an arrow that guides the student's gaze at the right moment: all of this reduces cognitive load and helps maintain focus on the explanation.

Many beginner content producers master cutting and pasting but freeze when it comes to creating movement. The result is often animations with a "robotic" and artificial look. Why does this happen? Because, by default, editing software moves objects linearly — constant speed from start to finish.

But nature doesn't work that way. Nothing in the real world starts moving instantly at maximum speed and stops suddenly. It requires inertia, acceleration, and deceleration.

The Mathematics Behind Editing

To solve this and raise the visual level of productions submitted to FVDEM, we have launched a new tutorial in our Tips for your Video tab.

In this practical guide, we show that video editing is pure mathematics. By manipulating so-called Keyframes and Speed Graphs, you are actually adjusting position versus time functions.

In the video, we demystify these technical concepts and teach you how to apply "smoothness" (Easing) to your animations:

• Ease-Out (Slow Out): The fundamental technique for bringing new elements to the screen (like presenting a definition or axiom). The object enters with energy and "brakes" smoothly, demonstrating weight and importance.

• Ease-In (Slow In): The best way to clear the digital board, making elements leave the scene with natural acceleration.

• Bézier Curves: For those who want total control, ideal for creating custom and fluid movements.

Watch the tutorial and transform your editing:

This tutorial is part of a continuous effort by FVDEM to equip the community. We believe that when a teacher or student masters the technical tool, pedagogical creativity flows more freely.

If you enjoyed this content, we invite you to explore our full "Tips for your video" tab. There, you will find everything from the basics of audio capture to editing tricks that make all the difference in the final result.