What representation can be used for adjusting the speed of an animation over time?

The Graph Editor is the most effective representation for adjusting the speed of an animation over time. This tool provides a visual representation of keyframe data, allowing users to see and manipulate the interpolation of speed and timing between keyframes. By using the Graph Editor, you can create smooth motion by adjusting the curves that represent the velocity of your animated properties, enabling precise control over how fast or slow an animation transitions between keyframes.

For instance, if you want an object to start slowly, speed up, and then slow down again, you can shape the speed graph accordingly, which directly affects the animation’s pacing. This level of detail is unattainable through other interfaces, as they typically present information in a more linear or less flexible manner.

The Animation Editor refers to a more general area within After Effects where various elements of animation can be adjusted but does not specifically focus on speed adjustments. The Timeline is fundamental for sequencing and managing keyframes but lacks the detailed curve manipulation required for nuanced speed changes. The Keyframe Viewer generally showcases keyframe placement but does not provide the capacity for visual speed adjustments that the Graph Editor enables.