Re: How do I keep clips locked into place?

Short answer: I don't think you can lock something in place in the way that you want. But this is one approach that might help...

Use the position tool ('P') to drag your end clip into place so it ends at :20. FCP will pad out the empty timeline with a blank gap clip.

Right-click this gap clip and choose 'New Compound Clip'.

Double click on that new compound clip, delete the blank clip inside it, and you've got a sub-timeline of exactly the right duration to play in. The diagonally-shaded areas show you where the in and out points are in the main timeline.

Click the left arrow below the 'import from camera' button to step back out to your main timeline.

That's the most elegant approach solution I can think of. I'd be interested to hear if anyone else has found a better way.

Markers are easy -- just tap 'M' to add one at the playhead or skimmer position. Control-click it to open a menu to delete etc.

James