Which term refers to an abrupt transition between shots?

• A. Crossfade
• B. Fade to black
• C. Jump cut
• D. Whip pan

Answer: (C)

A jump cut is an abrupt transition between shots. It intentionally trims out a portion of time in the same scene, so the second shot appears with a noticeable jump in action or timing, even if the framing stays similar. This creates a jolt to the viewer, often used to speed up pace or imply a passage of time without a smooth visual blend.

Crossfade and fade to black are gradual transitions, blending one image into another or fading to darkness, which is the opposite of abrupt. A whip pan is a fast camera movement used to cover a cut or link shots with motion, but the key idea of an abrupt, discontinuous jump between shots is what defines a jump cut.