A rough cut is the first assembled version of a video or film. It is an early version of an edited sequence where shots are assembled in order but not yet refined. It includes all the necessary content but may lack final transitions, effects, or sound design.
Rough cuts establish structure and pacing before time is spent on refinements. They allow teams to review story flow, spot missing elements, and make big-picture decisions early.
Build a rough cut once all footage is logged and organized. Use it for internal reviews, team feedback, and as a foundation for fine-cutting and finishing.
Prioritize story flow – Focus on narrative clarity before fine-tuning transitions or effects.
Expect placeholders – Use temp music, graphics, and rough audio until final assets are ready.
Seek feedback early – Share rough cuts to get structural notes before committing to details.