j-cut-and-l-cut-editing

name	j-cut-and-l-cut-editing
description	Use when editing dialogue and montage. J-cuts and L-cuts smooth transitions.

J-Cut and L-Cut Editing

J-cut: audio precedes video (J shape on timeline). L-cut: audio extends past video (L shape). Both smooth transitions.

J-cut definition

J-cut: NEXT scene's audio starts BEFORE its video. Viewer hears next scene before seeing it. Creates anticipation.

Timeline appearance: J-shape (audio extends below video left).

Use for: scene transitions, interview cutaways, building tension.

L-cut definition

L-cut: PREVIOUS scene's audio CONTINUES past its video. Viewer sees new scene while hearing old. Creates connection.

Timeline appearance: L-shape (audio extends past video right).

Use for: scene transitions, emotional handoff, montage.

When to use which

1. J-cut: introducing new scene with character's voice first
2. L-cut: maintaining audio continuity across visual transition
3. Combined: alternating J and L creates conversational rhythm
4. Skip: keep hard cuts for impact (interview cuts)

Where this fits in the X3 empire

Editing technique used in CardPrepAI tutorial videos.