Edit with a repeatable formula
A simple editing formula you can repeat for every clip: hook, context, payoff, loop.
6 min read
In short
- Every clip follows the same shape: hook in the first second, context, payoff, then a loop or a reason to rewatch.
- Cut every pause and filler word. Change the picture every two to four seconds.
- Caption every spoken word in a bold, easy to read font.
The four part formula
- 1Hook, 0 to 1 secondStart on the most surprising line or image. Add a short on-screen line that makes people curious.
- 2Context, 1 to 5 secondsJust enough to follow: who is talking and what is happening.
- 3PayoffThe moment itself: the reveal, the punchline or the reaction.
- 4LoopEnd right after the payoff, or on a line that sends people back to the start.
Pacing
- Remove every pause, breath and um
- Punch in or cut every two to four seconds
- Keep it as short as the moment allows
Check before export
Run the clip through the Virality predictor. It flags a still opening, missing sound and slow pacing before anyone else sees it.