The EssentialShowbiz Dictionary™

of Entertainment Industry Terms

Cut To

1 minute read | Last updated: 6 months ago

What does Cut To mean?

Cut To is a screenwriting and editing term that indicates an abrupt transition from one scene to another. It is one of the most basic editing transitions used to move the narrative forward quickly. In a screenplay, “cut to” is often used between scenes to signal a sharp change in location, time, or point of view. In post-production, the “cut to” technique helps maintain the pacing of a film or TV show by moving seamlessly from one shot or scene to the next.

Example:The script reads “Cut to: Interior – Office,” signaling a transition from an outdoor scene to an office setting in the next shot.
Example: In the editing room, the editor uses a “cut to” transition to jump from one character’s conversation to another happening simultaneously in a different location.

Did You Know?
“Cut to” is one of the simplest yet most frequently used transitions in film editing, helping to maintain pacing and storytelling momentum!

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