When I first started out using Final Cut Pro, I felt like I knew what needed to be done, but I didn’t know how to do it. Then after a while things started to flow and I could get the work done. However, I always felt that there was a more efficient way to accomplish the task. As any FCP user knows, there is an infinite number of ways to achieve a desired result. These are what I think are the most useful keyboard shortcuts to improve your workflow. (Note: I am assuming you have used the program before and understand some of the features).
- B - The B key switches to the razorblade tool which allows you to split a clip at a point that you choose. This is the essence of cutting and I use it constantly. Pressing B twice gives you the double razorblade which will slice through all the layers of your timeline.
- Command+“+” or “-” - This zooms in or out respectively.
- Shift+Z - This zooms out and allows you to see your entire timeline. Very useful, especially when you have gotten down into the nitty gritty of frame by frame editing and you need to see the big picture.
- Command+L - This links or unlinks selected clips. Used mainly to separate audio from video so you can overlap one or the other. Also useful if you want to use different audio on a given video clip.
- T - The only time I use this, I press it four times. This gives you a double arrow icon which will select all the clips after the point that you click. Great for awkward gaps.
- Control+U - Snaps you back to the default layout. Especially useful after someone else has been using your computer to quickly get you back into familiar territory.
- Command+8 - Brings up the log and capture window.
- I and O - When logging clips, press I to mark the in point and O to mark the out point
- J-K-L- Playback keys. J plays in reverse, K stops and L plays forward. Tapping J or L multiple times will increase the speed of playback in either direction. Also holding K while you hold J or L will give you a slow scrub. These are crucial and I use them constantly.
There are many many more shortcuts that are not listed here, but these are what I use most. Leave a comment and let me know if there are some that you think are vital that I did not include here. Happy editing!
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