CSS Animations

CSS Animations

CSS Animations allow you to animate transitions between different states of an element using keyframes. Unlike CSS transitions, which animate between two states on user interaction, animations can run automatically, loop infinitely, and define complex movement sequences.

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Why Use CSS Animations?

• Create eye-catching UI effects without JavaScript
• Animate properties like position, color, size, and opacity
• Enhance usability by drawing attention to important elements
• Build loading spinners, banners, sliding menus, and more

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Basic Syntax

1. Define the animation using @keyframes
2. Apply it using the animation property

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Example: Bouncing Box Animation

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Shorthand Syntax

You can write all animation properties in one line:

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Example: Color Changing Button on Load

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Best Practices

• Use transform and opacity over width or top for smoother animations.
• Avoid animating properties that trigger layout recalculation.
• Combine with @media queries to disable animations on smaller screens or for reduced-motion users.
• Keep animations short and purposeful—avoid overuse.

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Key Takeaways

• CSS animations animate HTML elements using @keyframes
• Use animation property to control duration, timing, delay, and iteration
• Ideal for banners, loaders, hover effects, and interactive UI designs
• Animations can run on load, loop infinitely, or play in both directions