It's All About.... Timing!
In class, we describe timing in 3 fundamental ways:
1) Steps (step-step-tri-ple-step)
2) Scats (ooh-ah-dee-ka-dah)
3) Counts (1-2-3-&4)
When learning a new move, I recommend trying to describe it using all 3 of these methods. Sometimes a movement will make more sense to you in one way vs. another. Think of each one as a key to “unlock” a step. Depending on the movement, some keys might work better than others. It’s also perfectly fine to switch back and forth as you need to.
Side Note: Being able to interpret the dance in all 3 ways can also be helpful when learning from other instructors. While most intermix these components, some instructors will exclusively use one method or another