Long-to-short script editing worksheet
Creator Lane | Reviewed September 15, 2026
https://creatorlanehq.com/blog/shorten-reel-script-30-seconds

LONG SCRIPT TO SHORT REEL
These examples are illustrative, not timed recordings.

BLANK
Current script/version:
Measured current duration:
Target duration:
One thing the viewer should learn:
Essential example:
Important qualifier or warning:
Sentence | KEEP/CUT/SHOW/MOVE | reason:
[copy every sentence into this section]
Material saved for a longer version:
Short script:
Visuals that carry useful information:
Spoken description needed for those visuals:
Measured rehearsal duration:
Pause/demo time included:
Least essential remaining sentence:
Listener's explanation of the lesson:
Accuracy check:
Final version:

COMPLETED EDIT
Topic: useful feedback for an editor.
Promise: timecode + specific problem + desired change.
CUT: long backstory about scattered messages.
KEEP: "make the opening better" as the vague-note example.
KEEP: one version-number/timecode example.
SHOW: three clear field labels.
MOVE: multiple approvers and payment/delivery process.
Short script: "Make the opening better" leaves your editor guessing. Give them three things: a timecode, the problem, and the change you want. For example: "Version two, six seconds. The product name disappears before I can read it. Keep it up until the demo starts." A clear note tells them what to fix—not how frustrated you feel.
Measured duration: not recorded; complete this after your own read.
Meaning check: can a new viewer write a note using the three fields?

You may adapt this original worksheet for personal and client work. Third-party materials retain their own licences.