What is a rough cut?

• A. An initial sequence of shots before fine-tuning
• B. Final version after color grading
• C. A continuous long take without cuts
• D. A transition effect used in postproduction

Answer: (A)

A rough cut is the first pass where the editor arranges the selected shots into a rough sequence to tell the story and establish pacing before any real polishing is done. It focuses on structure and flow rather than color, sound, or effects, and it’s used to review whether the narrative works, whether scenes are in the right order, and where adjustments to timing or coverage are needed. This is done before later steps like color grading, fine-tuning audio, and adding transitions.

So describing it as an initial sequence of shots before fine-tuning captures its purpose. The other options refer to the final product after finishing, a single uninterrupted take, or a specific postproduction effect, none of which describe the early edit stage.