Trimming is a fundamental step in video editing, allowing you to refine your footage and focus on the most important moments. CapCut makes this process simple and intuitive, even for beginners. Follow these steps to learn how to trim videos effectively within the app.
Step 1: Select the Video Clip #
Once you’ve added your video to the timeline, tap on the clip you want to trim. When selected, a white frame will appear around the edges of the clip, indicating it’s ready for editing. This visual cue ensures you’re working on the correct segment of your project.
Step 2: Trim by Dragging the Edges #
To adjust the length of your clip:
- Tap and hold the white edge of the selected clip on the timeline.
- Drag the edge inward to shorten the video or outward to retrieve previously trimmed sections.
- Release the edge when you’re satisfied with the adjustment.
This straightforward action lets you quickly remove unnecessary parts at the beginning or end of your video, keeping your project concise and polished.
A Gap-Free Workflow #
When trimming by dragging the edges, CapCut automatically shifts adjacent clips to fill the space. This dynamic adjustment ensures there are no gaps in your timeline, eliminating the risk of unwanted black screens in your final video. It’s a time-saving feature that helps maintain a seamless flow in your project.
Step 3: Trim a Section from the Middle #
If you need to remove a portion from the middle of a clip, you’ll need to split the footage. Here’s how:
- Move the playhead (the vertical line on the timeline) to the start of the section you want to remove.
- Tap the Split tool to cut the clip at the playhead position.
- Repeat the process at the end of the section you wish to trim.
- Select the split section and delete it. The remaining parts of the clip will automatically close the gap, maintaining a continuous sequence.
Trimming is a powerful way to refine your videos and create a smooth narrative. With CapCut’s intuitive tools, you can perfect your edits while saving time and effort.