# The 180-Degree Rule on a Storyboard (with Eyelines)

Canonical URL: https://www.cineoboard.com/blog/180-degree-rule-on-a-storyboard

How to mark the 180-degree line on a storyboard so overs and singles cut. Includes eyelines, motivated crosses, and why AI frames break geography.

Published: 2026-09-11 · 6 min read · Craft

The [180-degree line](/glossary/180-degree-rule) is not a theory question. It is whether shot 12-B can cut with 12-C. Mark it on the master before you draw coverage.

## Draw the line on the master

Sketch two subjects and a line between them. Write “cam stays south.” Every over, single and [OTS](/glossary/over-the-shoulder) is a camera on that side. [Eyelines](/glossary/eyeline) then have a wall to obey.

## Matching pairs

If A looks camera-left, B looks camera-right. Note it in the footer (`looks cam L`). Do not rely on the drawing alone; thumbnails get tiny on a [shot list](/glossary/shot-list).

## If you must cross

Board the crossing: a move, a walk that turns, a new establish. A jump across the line with no in-between is the mistake. [Continuity notes](/blog/storyboard-continuity-eyelines).

## Generators

Independent frames do not share a floor plan. Treat pass one as beat density, then impose geography by hand. [AI storyboard generators](/ai-storyboard-generator).

## FAQ

### Does animation care?

Sometimes, when you cut like live action. Stylised 2D often ignores it. Still time the reel. [Animation use case](/for/animation).

### Where do I practise?

Open the [demo](/demo) and reverse one over. If the look flips, you felt the rule.

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