The Methodology

Like all Apple Pro Training titles, this book emphasizes hands-on training. Where appropriate, it includes real-world, step-by-step exercises, so you can learn by doing. Some sections of the book, such as "Fundamentals of Video Standards and Hardware," are primarily reference information, and do not include detailed exercises. Each lesson builds on previous ones, but you can start with any section and focus on that topic.

Course Structure

This book is designed to help you set up, optimize, and maintain an effective FCP editing system. It is divided into five sections:

Lessons 16: Using Final Cut Pro in Real World Workflows

This section starts with a birds-eye view of common editing workflows for DV and film projects, and then uses exercises to walk you through the details of online and offline editing and distribution workflows.

Lessons 79: Fundamentals of Video Standards and Hardware Primer

This is a primer on the technology behind an editing system. It covers video standards and formats, plus all the hardware that goes along with themincluding capture cards, decks, and storage systems.

Lessons 1012: Configuring Final Cut Pro and Managing Your System

In this section you'll learn to install, set up, configure, optimize, and maintain a professional Final Cut Pro editing system.

Lessons 1315: Integrating Your System

Aimed primarily at systems integrators, this section shows you how to incorporate high-end capture cards, storage systems, and Xsan into an industry-standard Final Cut Pro installation.

Lessons 1618: Troubleshooting Final Cut Pro

The final section of the book covers troubleshooting. Chapter 16 gives an overview of basic troubleshooting methodology. Chapters 17 and 18 are symptom-and-solution guides to help you identify and solve the most common errors and issues encountered by video editors.