Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: In-betweens • Animatic • Leica Reel

Track

Term from Animation Storyboarding industry explained for recruiters

A Track is a key planning tool used in animation and storyboarding that helps artists organize and time their scenes. Think of it like a detailed map that shows how a story flows from beginning to end. It usually appears as a horizontal timeline where artists can lay out key story moments, dialogue, and action sequences. When someone mentions "track reading" or "tracking a scene," they're talking about reviewing these planned sequences to make sure everything flows smoothly. Other terms for this include "animatic timeline" or "story reel."

Examples in Resumes

Created detailed Track readings for 12 episodes of an animated series

Developed Track breakdowns to coordinate timing between animation and voice acting

Supervised Track planning for a team of 5 storyboard artists

Typical job title: "Track Readers"

Also try searching for:

Timing Director Animation Timer Track Reader Storyboard Timer Animation Track Planner Story Reel Coordinator

Where to Find Track Readers

Online Communities

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle complex action sequences when creating track readings?

Expected Answer: A senior track reader should explain how they break down complex scenes into manageable segments, coordinate with multiple departments, and ensure proper timing for both animation and sound elements.

Q: How do you train junior track readers while maintaining production schedule?

Expected Answer: Should discuss mentoring techniques, quality control processes, and how to balance training time with production deadlines while maintaining consistent output.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you coordinate track readings between storyboard and animation teams?

Expected Answer: Should explain communication methods between departments, how to resolve timing conflicts, and ensure smooth handoffs between story and animation phases.

Q: What's your process for revising tracks when script changes occur?

Expected Answer: Should describe their approach to efficiently updating timing while minimizing impact on production schedule and maintaining quality.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic elements of a track reading?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the fundamental components like scene timing, dialogue matching, and basic action beats in simple terms.

Q: How do you time a basic dialogue scene?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of matching animation timing to recorded dialogue and basic principles of timing for character movement.