By name: video-edit description: Plans editing structure, scene cuts, transitions, and pacing for video content. Produces editing decision lists that an editor can follow. Use when planning tutorial editing, demo videos, or presentation assembly.
Video Editing Planner
Core Principle
Cuts serve comprehension. Every cut should either clarify, emphasize, or maintain pace — never distract.
Three Phases
Phase 1: Scene Breakdown
- Segment the raw footage/script into logical scenes
- Label each scene: type (demo, explanation, transition, B-roll), duration, key moment
- Identify the "hero moments" — the shots that must land perfectly
Phase 2: Plan Cuts and Transitions
| Transition | Use When | Avoid When |
|---|---|---|
| Hard cut | Most transitions — clean, professional | Between unrelated scenes without context |
| Cross dissolve | Time passing, scene change | Within a single continuous demo |
| L/J cut | Audio leads/trails the visual | Overuse — becomes distracting |
| Jump cut | Compressing time in a demo | Explanation sections (feels rushed) |
| Fade to black | End of major section | Mid-content (signals "it's over") |
Phase 3: Pacing Map
- Fast sections (2-3s per shot): montages, intros, energy moments
- Medium sections (5-10s per shot): demos, walkthroughs
- Slow sections (10-20s per shot): complex explanations, key reveals
- Breathing room: 1-2 seconds of quiet after dense information
Output Format: Editing Decision List
## Scene 1: Hook (0:00 - 0:08)
- [0:00-0:03] Screen recording: final result running
- [0:03-0:05] HARD CUT to terminal — command being typed
- [0:05-0:08] Output appears — PAUSE for emphasis
## Scene 2: Context (0:08 - 0:25)
- [0:08-0:15] Talking head with B-roll overlay
- [0:15-0:25] Split screen: old way vs new way
Anti-Patterns
- Jump cuts without purpose: makes the video feel amateur and rushed
- Overproduced transitions: star wipes and 3D spins for a technical tutorial
- No visual variety: 5 minutes of the same camera angle. Add B-roll, screen recordings, diagrams.
- Inconsistent pacing: fast-slow-fast-slow without rhythm. Plan the energy curve.
- Missing breathing room: cutting immediately after key points — let them land