Video Editing · Intermediate level

Intermediate level · Module 4: Interview and Documentary Editing · Lesson 1 of 3

Paper Edits from Transcripts

Plan an interview edit on paper before cutting.

In this lesson you will

  • Transcribe and select quotes
  • Write a paper edit

Key concepts

transcriptsselectspaper editstory beats

The lesson

Transcribe interviews (auto-transcription helps; check it), then highlight strong quotes.

Arrange quotes into story beats — situation, challenge, action, change — in a paper edit.

Cutting from a paper edit is much faster than searching hours of footage.

Step by step

  1. Transcribe the interviews.
  2. Highlight quotes.
  3. Order them into beats.
  4. Write the paper edit.

Practice activity

Write the profile video's paper edit.

Expected result: A paper edit with a clear story.

Check your understanding

  1. What is a paper edit?

    Show answer

    A written plan of quotes and shots in story order.

  2. Why make a paper edit?

    Show answer

    It makes cutting faster and the story clearer.

Taught live by an instructor — online or in person. Free course lessons are for self-study and do not lead to a certificate — see registration options.