What does scrubbing refer to in video editing?

Scrubbing in video editing refers specifically to previewing a sequence by moving the Current Time Indicator (CTI) back and forth along the timeline. This technique allows editors to quickly navigate through a clip or a sequence to find specific moments or to review their edits without having to play the video in real-time. The CTI serves as a marker that indicates the current position within the timeline, and dragging it creates a "scrubbing" effect, allowing for precise control over playback.

This method is particularly useful for identifying spots to cut, inserting effects, or simply ensuring that the timing of the edits aligns well with the audio and visual elements of the content. By scrubbing, editors can achieve a more efficient workflow as they can easily locate key frames or moments in the video.