# The ProTools Interface The Pro Tools interface can seem a little daunting at first. To help you get more comfortable and familiar with the basics, please watch the following video. This tutorial will guide you through the fundamental aspects of the interface, making it easier to navigate and use effectively. ![https://youtu.be/AwJMSkdWDqA](https://youtu.be/AwJMSkdWDqA) # Zoom Tool The Zoom tool is located in the ProTools tools section, and you can also activate it by using the keyboard shortcut Cmd + 1. ![[Pasted image 20250118153826.webp]] To zoom in, click on the project timeline. For zooming out, hold down the Alt key while clicking. You can also refer to the video below for a visual demonstration. ![[ProTools - Zooming with Zoomer Tool.mov]] # Mouse Wheel Zooming Shortcut You can hold down the Option key while scrolling the mousewheel or trackpad up and down to zoom as well. # Zooming Keyboard Shortcuts I actually prefer a different method for zooming using keyboard shortcuts, as it eliminates the need to switch to the Zoom Tool, which can slow down workflows. In Pro Tools, you can zoom using various methods, such as the mouse wheel or keyboard shortcuts. Pressing "R" and "T" while holding down the Control key allows for zooming in and out efficiently. # Preferred Method - "Edit Keyboard Focus" Method There's an even more efficient method! Activating the "Edit Keyboard Focus" button allows us to use shortcuts by simply pressing "R" and "T," eliminating the need to use the Control key. It might seem like a small difference, but speed is vital in professional workflows! ![image.png](https://swccd.instructure.com/courses/71807/files/11013727/preview) ![[Pasted image 20250118195444.webp|427]] ![image.png](https://swccd.instructure.com/courses/71807/files/11013931/preview) ![[Pasted image 20250118195457.webp|86]] # Curated Resource Please watch this video on zooming tricks within ProTools. ![https://youtu.be/TvfLI4SE_0k](https://youtu.be/TvfLI4SE_0k "Share link")