Make one change at a time
Play across each cut and decide whether the outgoing shot stays too long or the incoming shot begins too late. Editing rhythm comes from what the viewer needs to understand, not a fixed number of seconds per shot.
Split a clip
- Switch to the Sequence viewer and select the timeline clip.
- Position the playhead at the intended cut. Use the left and right arrow keys for frame steps when the editing surface is focused.
- Choose Split at Playhead (
⌘K). - Select the unwanted portion.
- Choose Ripple Delete (
⇧⌫) to remove it and close the gap, or Lift Selection (⌫) to leave a gap intentionally.
Refine a clip edge
Trim changes a clip’s start or end. Ripple trimming also shifts following material. A roll moves the edit between two neighboring clips while keeping their combined duration.
Use the inspector’s precision trim controls when you need an exact frame adjustment. Check which operation is selected before pressing a step button. If Meridian refuses an extension, you may have reached the available source handles.
Review the result
Play several seconds before and after the edit. Check picture continuity and listen for an abrupt sound change. If audio and video belong together, keep linked selection enabled unless you intend to change them separately.
⌘Z undoes the most recent action in the focused editor. Finish typing in a field before trying to undo a timeline operation. Save once the short sequence feels coherent.