How to Clip a YouTube Video: A Begginer's Crash Course

Mastering how to clip a YouTube video is the secret all content creators want to possess. Whether editing out glitches and scenes or getting your message through, knowing how to clip videos like a pro can make your content stand out above the smashing competition on the biggest platform of the internet, with 2.5 billion users—almost twice the population of China! 

Your AI Video Editor

Edit long-form videos effortlessly with AI

Start For Free

This guide will give you the clipping process and offers insightful tools and tips for perfecting your edits and making your videos truly the bomb. And, like the illustrious Black-Eyed Peas once sang: Let’s get it started in here!

Why Clipping Is Life-Or-Death: Pump Up Your Video 

how to clip youtube video

Clipping videos is like spring cleaning for your work: it removes the clutter. 

Remember, a clear message usually gets the most engagement. Check out how Gling can save creators hundreds of post hours with state-of-the-art AI  

Clipping YouTube Videos: Step-by-Step

1. Access YouTube Studio

To begin your clipping journey, access YouTube Studio, the control center for your video management. Click on your profile icon in the top-right corner and select YouTube Studio. This is where you’ll edit.

2. Pick A Video

In YouTube Studio, head to the Content tab. This section displays all your uploaded videos. Find the video you want to clip and click on the title to open the details page.

3. Enter the Editor

On the video details page, click on the Editor tab. This opens the video editing interface, where you can make precise edits. The editor is where the magic happens, allowing you to refine your video easily.

4. Use the Trim Tool

In the editor, find the Trim button. This tool lets you adjust the timeline with blue handles at both ends. Drag these handles to select the portion of the video you want to keep. For a detailed breakdown of modern, updated ways to achieve this, explore Gling.ai’s Trimming Techniques.

5. Preview Your Edits

Before finalizing, use the Preview button to review your edited video. This step is crucial to ensure that your changes flow naturally and that no critical content is lost. If something feels off, you can make further adjustments and tweak it until satisfied.  

6. Save Your Changes

Once you’re happy with your edits, click Save. YouTube will process the updates, preserving your video’s URL, view count, and comments. This means your video’s metrics remain intact. 

7. Explore Advanced Editing Features

Add elements like background music or end screens to enhance your video further. These add-ons can boost viewer engagement and keep your content fresh. For more advanced editing tips and tools, visit Gling’s Advanced Editing Tools for more knowledge.

Video Clipping Tips: ‘Fix It In Post’ Has Never Been Easier

how to clip youtube video

1. Keyboard Shortcuts Will Save The World

Speed up your editing process with keyboard shortcuts. These shortcuts streamline trimming and adjustments, making your workflow more efficient. Familiarize yourself with YouTube’s shortcuts to accelerate your editing tasks.  

2. Trimming Makes Perfect

Think of video editing as perfecting a recipe. Don’t be afraid to experiment with multiple trims. YouTube allows several adjustments, so test various sections to find the ideal cuts. Always preview your edits to ensure a smooth and engaging viewing experience.

3. Captions Generate Accessibility

Captions are more than just functional; they can broaden your audience and keep viewers interested. They’re also a key addition to any video. Enhancing accessibility for viewers with hearing impairments will most likely improve overall engagement. For tips on adding captions to optimize your video, go to Gling’s article on How To Generate Captions

4. Create Thumbnails That Command Attention

Your video’s thumbnail serves as its first impression—make it captivating! An eye-catching thumbnail can significantly increase click-through rate. Use design tools like Canva to create thumbnails that attract eyes and accurately represent your video’s content. For tips and tricks on creating engaging material, see Gling’s blog.

5. Monitor Engagement Progress

After clipping your video, visit the Gling.ai website and track its performance using YouTube analytics. Metrics like watch time and audience retention will help gauge how your edits impact viewer engagement. This data is invaluable for refining your approach in the future, as video performance is a fantastic variable to track.

Cheat Sheet for Clipping Your YouTube Videos

  • Access YouTube Studio: Click the profile icon > YouTube Studio.
  • Locate Video: Go to Content > Select video title.
  • Enter the Editor: Click on the Editor tab.
  • Use the Trim Tool: Adjust timeline handles to select video segments. For trimming techniques, check out Gling’s Guides for most editing software.
  • Preview Edits: Ensure changes flow naturally.
  • Save Changes: Click Save to apply edits.
  • Explore Advanced Features: Add music and end screens.  
  • Utilize Keyboard Shortcuts: Speed up your editing process.  
  • Experiment with Trims: Test multiple trims for optimal results.
  • Add Captions: Improve accessibility and engagement.  
  • Optimize Thumbnails: Design compelling images.  
  • Monitor Engagement: Track analytics for performance insights.  

Clipping Videos Is Cool, But Reads from the Gling.ai Blog Are Too

Before you go, here’s an index of must-read articles:

Clip it Like It’s Hot!

Mastering video clipping for YouTube is a badass skill that can turn your good content into a magnum opus. For expert advice and advanced techniques, Gling.ai is your go-to source for optimizing your video strategy and reaching new audiences (or potential investors).

With this guide and AI tools, cut your YouTube videos with precision and flair. Embody your inner Coppola and deliver videos that speak your language. Get ready to soar and reach the stars!