The Foundation
The first twelve weeks are dedicated to building an unshakeable technical and conceptual foundation. You cannot develop editing instinct without first mastering your tools and understanding the fundamental language of cinema. Every great editor knows their NLE the way a musician knows their instrument: without thinking.
Orientation & NLE Setup
Understand the editing workspace, project structure, and basic navigation.
The Grammar of Editing
Understand the fundamental vocabulary — the cut, dissolve, wipe, and fade.
Continuity Editing
Master the 180-degree rule, eyeline matching, and cutting on action.
The J-Cut and L-Cut
Master the J-cut and L-cut as tools for seamless audio-visual transitions.
Shot Sizes and Coverage
Understand how different shot sizes function narratively and how to use coverage effectively.
Building a Sequence
Assemble a complete narrative sequence with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
Pacing — The Heartbeat of the Edit
Understand pacing as a storytelling tool and learn to control it consciously.
Rhythm — Editing to Music and Internal Beat
Develop a sense of internal rhythm in your edits, independent of music.
Walter Murch's Rule of Six
Understand and apply Walter Murch's six criteria for a good cut.
The Blink — Finding the Natural Cut Point
Learn to identify the natural cut point within a shot by observing human behavior.
Basic Color Correction
Learn the fundamentals of color correction to create a balanced, professional-looking image.
Audio Fundamentals & Phase 1 Milestone
Master the basics of audio editing, mixing, and sync. Complete your Phase 1 milestone project.