Mastering Final Cut Pro: How to Use the Option-Shift-S Keyboard Shortcut for Timeline Scrolling

What Option-Shift-S Does

In Final Cut Pro, Option-Shift-S toggles Timeline Scrolling. Apple describes it as toggling continuous scrolling for the timeline during playback. With it on, the timeline scrolls along with playback so the playhead stays in view and you can see what's coming up next.

It only affects what happens during playback. It isn't a way to scroll the timeline without moving the playhead.

Why It Helps

When you're zoomed in, the playhead can run off the edge of the visible timeline during playback. With Timeline Scrolling on, the timeline keeps moving under the playhead, so you can watch clips, waveforms, and markers go by while you review your edit.

How to Use It

1. Zoom in on your timeline with Command-Equals.
2. Press Option-Shift-S to turn on Timeline Scrolling.
3. Press the Space bar to play. The timeline scrolls continuously as the project plays.
4. Press Option-Shift-S again to turn it off when you want the view to stay put.

Tips

• Turn it on for reviewing long edits or checking audio waveforms against picture.
• Turn it off when you're making edits during playback and want the timeline to stay still.
• Timeline Scrolling is a toggle, so it stays in whichever state you left it.