How Do You Handle Line Map Sync Issues in Shotcut's Timeline?

Hey everyone,

I’ve been using Shotcut for a while now, and I recently ran into an issue that’s been bugging me a bit when working on a specific project. Basically, I’m having trouble keeping things aligned on the timeline, especially when working with multiple layers of video, audio, and effects. I thought I had it all figured out, but sometimes when I move a clip or adjust the timing, everything else seems to shift in weird ways, and I end up spending a lot of time just re-aligning everything.

What I noticed is that the line map in Shotcut’s timeline is pretty helpful in showing the relationships between the tracks. A line map, in general, is a visual representation of how different elements are connected and positioned over time. In the context of Shotcut, it allows you to see the flow of your video, audio, and effects, and how they all relate to each other within the timeline. It’s somewhat similar to how you would draw and measure map lines online to understand distances and connections between locations. This concept inspired me because it visually links the elements, helping you understand how your edits impact the overall project. However, lately, as my project becomes more intricate, I feel like I’m losing control over this visual aid. I’m starting to wonder if there’s a better approach to working with the timeline to maintain a smooth workflow, especially when adjusting multiple tracks.

For instance, do you guys tend to lock tracks once they’re set to avoid accidental shifts, or do you have other tips to make the process smoother? I’ve been thinking about trying different workflows, but I’d love to hear what has worked for you guys. I’m also curious if anyone else experiences this kind of timeline shift when dragging things around or adding new clips. It seems like sometimes the ripple effect takes over even when I’m not trying to apply it. Could it be a setting I’m overlooking? Or maybe there’s a more efficient way to drag clips around without causing this domino effect?

I get that Shotcut’s a great tool and all, and I’m not complaining about the software itself. It’s more about how I can adjust my own workflow to keep things in check. I’d rather focus on editing than constantly tweaking the alignment of the clips. Maybe I’m just missing something basic or not using the timeline as effectively as I could. Any tips, tricks, or advice you could share would be greatly appreciated!

Has anyone faced similar frustrations? How did you manage to solve or minimize these timeline issues? I feel like there’s got to be a more efficient way to handle this without spending so much time on trial and error.

Thanks for your help! Looking forward to your insights!

Just to rule it out: Maybe you’ve just accidentally enabled Ripple and/or Ripple All Tracks?

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Hi @QuidelCarina , I use Shotcut almost daily, often with very complex timelines, like this one:


and I have to say I don’t have your problem with clips etc moving out of line for unexplained reasons…
I think @musicalbox’s comment in the above post is worth investigating.

Also here’s a quick tip: Say you want a clip to move to the playhead position, instead of dragging, just select the clip and press “c”, then “z” then “b”. The clip will be copied, deleted, then positioned at the playhead. Hope this helps.

Also, thank you for giving the link to the online map line measuring tool. Very cool!

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I made a short demo video to show the c-z-b technique.

Nice little trick there @jonray. Thanks!
One of those why-didn’t-I-think-of-that deal.
:slight_smile: :+1:

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If you’re as geeky as me, you could also make up a simple Auto Hotkey script to reduce the process to one keypress that types c,z,b. :sunglasses:

I can post the script here if anyone wants it. I do use it all the time if I have lots of repositioning to do.

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