What does EDL stand for in video editing?

The term EDL stands for Edit Decision List. In video editing, an EDL is a document or a file that contains a list of the edits made to a film or video project, specifying the order of clips, transitions, and any effects applied. This list is used to communicate and manage the editing decisions made during the post-production process. An EDL typically includes information such as source tape numbers, timecodes, and the sequence of clips, which allows for the reassembly of the project during various stages of production or to facilitate the working relationship between different editing systems. This makes it an essential tool for editors, helping to ensure that the final product reflects the vision laid out in the editing process.