Words to Cut On

Linear storytelling is about progression. It's about the ordering of events to create a beginning, middle and end and thereby a compelling narrative. As an editor, I constantly ask myself, how do I get from here to there?

One road post to look for are transitional words like but, however, and therefore. These words connote change. They pivot the narrative making them great words to cut on.

"I was was walking to the store, but" - walking-to-the-store image.

"I decided to go home. " - relaxing-at-home image.

As a general rule, I cut after the transition.

The grammar of language and the grammar of editing flow together. Don't overlook their connection.