The Animator Skills Certification, abbreviated as “Ani-Ken,” is an examination that measures the technical skills and knowledge required for the most fundamental section of an animator’s work, primarily in the “animation” category, on a level-by-level basis.
It is one of the initiatives for human resource development aimed at the future of the entire anime industry and young people aspiring to work in the anime industry. We look forward to welcoming many participants for the examination!
Flow of Taking the Animator Skill Test
- 1.Check the examination date and location on this website and apply.
- 2.Bring the examination ticket, writing utensils, and any other necessary items to the venue.
(※ Please note that the examination may last for approximately 5 to 8 hours! Don’t forget to prepare food and drinks!) - 3.Take the examination at the venue, starting with the applied level. You will draw on paper using a tracing board!
- 4.All answer sheets will be collected and graded.
- 5.After the grading is completed, answer sheets with marks will be returned to the examinees along with the result notification.
If you pass, proceed to the next level! If you fail, practice based on the marked areas and challenge the examination again!
Animators’ Glossary
Here are explanations of tools and terms commonly used by animators in their work!
【Tap (Binder Clips)】
Used to bundle paper together to prevent it from shifting.
Using binder clips to secure the paper makes it easier to check the movement, similar to flipping through the pages of a comic book.
There are various types available, but starting with inexpensive ones is perfectly fine.
【Desk (Light Table)】
A3 size is the most commonly used and convenient, but smaller sizes are also acceptable.
For this examination, we will use A4 size paper, so choose a table larger than that.
Recently, there are thin and lightweight tables with LED lights available as well.
【Eraser】
Used to erase large areas.
It’s commonly used during rough sketches.
Popular brands include “MONO” and “AIR-IN,” but any eraser will do the job.
【Colored Pencils】
When used for line drawing, generally, having red and blue colors is sufficient.
If you’re unsure which colored pencils to use, try using Mitsubishi Pencil’s erasable colored pencils “Uni Arterez Color” in “343 Blue” and “312 Geranium.”
For coloring the backside, any color is fine, but having at least three colors will make it easier for the finishing artist to understand.
【Pencils】
Recommendations range from B to 2B.
Since there are individual differences in pressure and preferences, try various brands.
For creating tracing samples, any pencil will do.
Avoid using mechanical pencils because controlling the pressure and adjusting the start and end of lines can be difficult.
If you’re unsure which pencil to use, try Mitsubishi Pencil’s 2B “Uni” or “Hi-Uni.”
【Electric Pencil Sharpener】
There are various brands available, but those made by Devika and Nakabayashi are commonly used by animators.
【Erasing Shield】
A tool used to cleanly erase stray lines, etc.
Even if you don’t have an electric eraser, having an erasing shield is sufficient.
【Paper】
Refers to “animation paper.”
Use paper with “peg holes” for securing with a peg bar when using a light table.
NAFCA plans to sell animation paper online, so if it’s not available at local stores, consider purchasing it online.
【Electric Eraser】
A convenient professional tool if available.
It’s very useful for erasing small details.
Since it can be expensive, beginners can use an erasing shield instead.
【Lead Holder】
Another convenient professional tool if available.
Insert a thicker lead into the holder for use.
Since only the lead needs to be replaced, unlike pencils, the holder doesn’t get shorter with sharpening and is easier to grip.
The lead also sharpens easily for convenient use.