Check the package before checking the cues

A subtitle delivery is an asset-by-language matrix, not just a file count.

Six files can look like a complete delivery until you notice that one episode has two English versions and another is missing Spanish. Start with the expected assets and languages, then compare the folder to that expectation. Checking only the total file count hides this kind of error.

Write the expected matrix first

In CueCheck, enter asset codes such as E01, E02 and E03. Add language codes such as en and es. That creates six expected slots. For multiple seasons, use explicit codes such as S01E01 so that matching episode numbers do not collapse into one asset. The first version assumes every listed asset needs every listed language.

Confirm every assignment

The tool guesses assignments from filename segments separated by periods, underscores or spaces. A filename such as project.E01.en.srt maps naturally to asset e01 and language en. A name like episode-one-english.srt may need manual assignment. Use the selectors on its file card rather than trusting a guess.

Separate presence from readiness

A green “Present” cell means one file occupies the slot. It does not say that its text, timings or translation are approved. Two assigned files create a duplicate slot even if they have different extensions. Decide which version is the actual deliverable, remove the other from the check, and keep an archival copy wherever your team normally stores working files.

Review the findings in context

Structural errors, such as an end time before a start time, need attention. Review flags, such as overlapping cues or fast reading speeds, can be intentional. Read your delivery brief and compare questionable cues against the video. A text-only check cannot tell you whether a caption matches a spoken word.

Export a handoff record

The CSV includes missing and duplicate slots alongside file-level findings. The HTML report is easier to read as a standalone document. Both are created locally and include filenames and configured thresholds. Choose carefully where to share the report: the checker keeps your files local, but a report you send may contain project identifiers.