---
title: "Timecode"
description: "How editors tell time… and pain."
url: "https://www.clueso.io/glossary/timecode"
updated: "2026-09-11T08:58:02.010Z"
---

# Timecode

How editors tell time… and pain.

## What it is

Timecode is a numerical reference system that marks hours, minutes, seconds, and frames in video. It keeps footage, audio, and effects synchronized during editing and broadcast.

- **Non-drop frame:** Counts frames sequentially.
- **Drop frame:** Skips frame numbers at set intervals to stay aligned with real-world clock time (needed for NTSC video standards).

## Why it's important

Timecode ensures precise syncing, logging, and referencing across teams and devices. It is essential in editing, broadcast, and multi-cam productions. Drop-frame is standard for broadcast timing; non-drop is used in film and web.

## When/how to use

Set timecode preferences in your camera and editing software based on project needs. Use it to mark in/out points, sync media, or coordinate across production departments.

## Best Practices

1. **Choose correctly –** Use drop-frame for broadcast accuracy, non-drop for film or non-broadcast projects.
2. **Sync across devices –** Ensure cameras, audio recorders, and editing software share matching timecode.
3. **Log precisely –** Use timecode to mark notes, edits, or cues for efficient collaboration.

\| 📖 Read more: [How to Make Tasteful Screen-Capture Videos](https://www.clueso.io/blog/how-to-make-tasteful-screen-capture-videos)