How to Create a Typing Animation in Premiere Pro (3 Methods)

Typing animations (also called typewriter effects) are a popular way to reveal text in videos. While Premiere Pro doesn't have a built-in typewriter effect like After Effects, there are several ways to achieve this look. Here are three methods, from manual to automated.

Video tutorial covering multiple methods:

Method 1: Using the Crop Effect (Manual)

This is the most common native method in Premiere Pro. It works by gradually revealing text using keyframed crop values.

1. Create a text layer using the Type Tool (T)
2. Go to Effects → Video Effects → Transform → Crop
3. Apply the Crop effect to your text layer
4. Set the Right crop value to 100% at the start (hides all text)
5. Create a keyframe, then move to where you want the text fully revealed
6. Set the Right crop value to 0%

Limitations: This reveals text smoothly rather than character-by-character. It also doesn't include a cursor, and timing adjustments require re-keyframing.

Method 2: Essential Graphics Templates (MOGRTs)

You can find free or paid typewriter MOGRTs (Motion Graphics Templates) that work directly in Premiere Pro.

Where to Find Typewriter MOGRTs

• Motion Array (large selection, subscription-based)
• Envato Elements (unlimited downloads with subscription)
• Adobe Stock (integrates directly with Premiere Pro)
• Mixkit (free templates, limited selection)

How to Use a MOGRT

1. Download the .mogrt file
2. Open the Essential Graphics panel (Window → Essential Graphics)
3. Click the + icon and import your .mogrt file
4. Drag it onto your timeline
5. Edit the text and adjust timing in the panel

Pros: Easy to use, often includes cursor animation. Cons: Limited customization, may require purchase, and quality varies.

Method 3: Import a Pre-Made Animation

The fastest method is to create your typing animation in a dedicated tool and import the video file into Premiere Pro.

1. Create your typing animation using a tool like TypeFlow, After Effects, or any animation tool
2. Export as MP4 (with background) or MOV with alpha channel (transparent background)
3. Import the file into Premiere Pro (File → Import)
4. Drag it onto your timeline above your footage
5. If using MOV with alpha, the transparency will work automatically

Quick tutorial: Create and import a typing animation in under 2 minutes:

Pros: Full control over the animation, includes cursor and realistic timing, works with any footage. Cons: Requires an external tool.

Which Method Should You Use?

• One-off simple reveal: Use the Crop effect
• Frequent use, want consistency: Get a good MOGRT template
• Need realistic typing with cursor: Use an external tool and import

Tips for Better Results

• Use a monospace font for a more authentic typewriter look
• Add a subtle keystroke sound effect synced to the typing
• Keep the typing speed readable. Too fast and viewers can't follow
• For transparent overlays, ensure your export format supports alpha channels (ProRes 4444 or Animation codec)