Video editing glossary
Short, plain definitions of editing terms, each with how it is used in real short-form and talking-head videos.
What is jump cut?
A jump cut skips forward within the same shot so the subject appears to jump. Definition, why creators use it, and how to make jump cuts feel intentional.
What is J-cut?
A J-cut lets the audio of the next scene start before its picture. Definition, a simple example and how to make smooth transitions with it.
What is L-cut?
An L-cut keeps the audio of one shot while the picture shows the next. Definition, examples and when it helps in interviews and explainer videos.
What is B-roll?
B-roll is supplementary footage cut over the main shot. Definition, examples, how long to hold each shot and how it differs from A-roll.
What is A-roll?
A-roll is the primary footage of a video, usually the speaker. Definition, how it differs from B-roll and why its quality matters most.
What is LUT?
A LUT is a look-up table that maps colours to apply a look quickly. Definition, technical vs creative LUTs and how to use one without crushing detail.
What is retention editing?
Retention editing is cutting and styling a video to keep viewers watching. Definition, the main techniques and how to avoid making it frantic.
What is hook (video)?
A hook is the first line or image that makes a viewer keep watching. Definition, common types and what separates a strong hook from a vague one.
What is cutaway?
A cutaway shot interrupts the main action to show something related. Definition, how it hides cuts and how to choose cutaways that fit the story.
What is match cut?
A match cut joins two shots through a matching shape, motion or idea. Definition, examples for short videos and tips for planning one.
What is aspect ratio?
Aspect ratio is the proportion of a frame's width to its height. Definition, common video ratios, which platform uses which and how to convert safely.
What is safe zone?
A safe zone is the area of the frame that stays visible and uncovered. Definition, how it applies to vertical video and how to test one.
What is burned-in captions?
Burned-in captions are part of the picture and cannot be turned off. Definition, how they differ from closed captions and when to use each.
What is closed captions?
Closed captions are a text track viewers can turn on, including speech and sounds. Definition and the difference from subtitles and burned-in captions.
What is frame rate?
Frame rate is how many frames play each second. Definition, common rates and how to keep a consistent rate through export.
What is bitrate?
Bitrate is the amount of data per second of video or audio. Definition, how it affects quality and file size, and how to estimate size.
What is codec?
A codec compresses and decompresses video. Definition, common codecs, the difference from a container like MP4 and how to choose one for upload.
What is keyframe?
A keyframe marks a value at a point in time so software animates between them. Definition, examples such as zoom and position, and easing.
What is colour grading?
Colour grading sets a creative look; correction fixes exposure and white balance. Definition, order of work and why it matters for talking videos.
What is talking head?
A talking-head video shows a person speaking to camera. Definition, common formats, why it works and how to edit it so it stays interesting.
What is vertical video?
Vertical video is shot or framed taller than wide, usually 9:16. Definition, standard size and how to make vertical content for Reels, Shorts and TikTok.
What is punch-in?
A punch-in is a quick crop into a shot to add emphasis or hide a cut. Definition, how big to go and how to avoid softness and jitter.
What is motion graphics?
Motion graphics are animated graphic elements such as text, shapes and charts. Definition, uses in talking videos and tools that create them.
What is lower third?
A lower third is a text graphic in the lower part of the screen naming a speaker or topic. Definition, design rules and how it differs from captions.
What is transcription?
Transcription turns spoken audio into text. Definition, how automatic transcription works at a high level, accuracy limits and how captions use it.
What is cutout (video)?
A cutout separates a person from the background so graphics can sit behind them. Definition, how it works at a high level and how to film for clean edges.
What is call to action (CTA)?
A call to action tells viewers what to do next. Definition, common CTAs in video and how to place one without hurting retention.
What is thumbnail?
A thumbnail is the still image that represents a video. Definition, design basics and how it differs from a cover frame on short-form platforms.
What is loop video?
A looping video ends so it flows back into its start. Definition, why creators use loops and how to write one without it feeling forced.
What is timeline?
The timeline is the panel in an editor where clips are arranged in order. Definition, tracks and how it differs from a skill-based edit.
What is render?
Rendering is the process of generating the final video file from edits and effects. Definition, why it takes time and how to speed it up.
What is proxy files?
Proxy files are small stand-ins for large media so editing feels smooth. Definition, when to use them and how they relink on export.
What is ripple edit?
A ripple edit changes a clip and shifts later clips to close or open the gap. Definition, when to use ripple delete and how it differs from delete.
What is audio ducking?
Audio ducking lowers background music while someone speaks. Definition, why it keeps speech clear and how to set it up or do it by hand.
What is sound effect (SFX)?
Sound effects are non-speech sounds added to video. Definition, common types such as whooshes and hits, and how to use them without clutter.
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