How to Create Basic Automation in FL Studio

Learn to automate parameters in FL Studio to bring dynamic changes and movement to your music.

Automation · intermediate level

Steps

  1. Identify the Parameter to Automate

    Find the knob, slider, or button you want to automate (e.g., a mixer track's volume, a synth's filter cutoff, an effect's dry/wet mix). Ensure it's active.

  2. Create an Automation Clip

    Right-click on the chosen parameter. From the context menu, select 'Create automation clip'. This will automatically generate a new 'Automation' track in the Playlist with an empty automation clip.

  3. Draw Automation Points

    In the Playlist, left-click on the automation clip to add a new control point. Click and drag existing points up or down to set the parameter's value at that point in time. Right-click points for advanced options like curves or step automation.

  4. Shape Automation Curves

    Right-click between two control points to open a context menu. Choose different curve types (e.g., 'Single curve', 'Double curve') to create smooth transitions between your automation points.

  5. Link to Existing Automation Clip (Optional)

    If you want to use an existing automation clip to control a new parameter, right-click on the new parameter and select 'Link to controller...'. In the dialog, set 'Internal Controller' to 'Automation clip' and choose the desired automation clip from the list.

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