About Select Every Other Layer

Select Every Other Layer, created by Scott Black, provides row‑based layer selection in Adobe After Effects through compact expressions. Single numbers set a step (e.g., 2 selects every other layer, 5 selects every fifth). Syntax such as N+S starts at a chosen layer (3+5 selects layers 5, 8, 11, …) and N‑S applies a negative offset. Explicit lists and ranges (e.g., 4‑7, 10, 18‑20) are also supported. Three modes are available: Selection (replaces the current selection), Add (extends it), and Deselection (subtracts defined layers). The panel can also select parent, child, and track‑matte source layers, and includes quick up/down selection toggles. All actions are keyboard‑driven, with panel shortcuts for mode switching, text entry, history cycling, and execution, plus configurable global shortcuts usable anywhere in After Effects. Options include Compact Mode, toggleable readouts, warning silencing, and custom sound effects via .mp3 files with volume control.

Features

• Freeform range and step syntax: single numbers for every Nth layer, N+S starts, N-S offsets, and lists or ranges like 4-7, 10, 18-20
• Three modes: Selection (replaces the current selection), Add (extends it), and Deselection (subtracts defined layers)
• Selects parent layers, child layers, and track matte source layers
• Quick select up and down, plus a toggle to select every layer in a direction
• Keyboard-driven with main panel shortcuts and custom global shortcuts usable anywhere in After Effects
• Options for Compact Mode, real-time readout visibility, and warning silencing
• Configurable sound effects with custom .mp3 files and adjustable global volume

Best for

After Effects users who need fast, keyboard‑driven layer selection by row, using ranges or repeating steps.