Apple Final Cut Express 4 - Manual (Page 950)

950 Part XI Project Management and Settings
Using Keyboard Shortcuts to Modify Master-Affiliate
Clip Relationships
The master clip command in the Modify menu changes depending on what type of
clip you have selected. For example, if you select a master clip in the Browser, the
Modify menu contains the Duplicate as New Master Clip command.
Because this is actually one command whose behavior adjusts depending on the type
of clip selected, there is only a single button, called Make/Break Master Clip, to access
this command in the Button List window. To determine the results of clicking the
Make/Break Master Clip button, determine which kind of clip is selected and use the
table above.
When Can Independent Clips Become Affiliated with Existing
Master Clips?
For an independent clip to become affiliated with a preexisting master clip when
using the Create Master Clips command, the following criteria must be met:
 The master clip must contain all tracks that are used by the independent clip.
 The master clip must contain all of the frames used by the independent clip.
Essentially, all media used by the independent clip must exist in the master clip.
However, it’s perfectly acceptable for a master clip to have more tracks or a longer
duration than an affiliate clip.
Type of selected clip Modify menu command
Master clip Duplicate as New Master Clip
Affiliate clip in Browser Make Master Clip
Affiliate clip in sequence Make Independent Clip