Stop AE from stretching shapes symmetrically

The easiest way to find the properties in a shape layer that is not at the default value is to press the U key twice right after you create the layer. I do this almost every time, then type in the values I want for parametric shapes and zero out the transform shape properties to center up the anchor point in parametric shapes. As long as the link is broken you can individually drag either the X or the Y value to change a parametric shape. You can also grab any corner and scale to any aspect ratio you like. The Shift key + click and drag constrains proportions, the Alt/Option key duplicates a shape if you click and drag, otherwise, a parametric shape layer uniformly transforms around the anchor point if you click and drag. You cannot click and drag in the comp panel and change the size of a parametric (rectangle for example) shape, you have to do that by clicking and dragging or typing values in the Shape>Size property in the timeline.

Hey Dave.

Thanks for the answer, but it does not seem to work, at least not for me. I've unlinked the scale, but regardless if i pull on the percentages or the shape it still scales symmetrically?