How to Cut Videos on Windows: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Cutting videos on Windows is a breeze once you know the steps. You’ll use built-in tools or simple software to trim videos to your liking. Just load your video, mark the start and end points, and save it. This guide will walk you through the process, making it easy to polish your videos like a pro.

How to Cut Videos on Windows

Let’s dive into the steps to trim your video. By the end of these steps, you’ll have a neatly cut video ready for viewing or sharing.

Step 1: Open the Video Editor

First, launch the Windows Photos app and access the Video Editor.

Windows Photos isn’t just for pics! It includes a handy video editor. Open the app, click on "Video Editor," and you’re ready to start slicing and dicing.

Step 2: Create a New Project

Click "New Video Project" and give your project a name.

Naming your video project helps keep things organized. It’s like labeling a folder to find your files easily later on.

Step 3: Add Your Video

Select "Add" and choose the video file you want to cut.

Drag your video file from your computer into the project library. It’s the digital equivalent of putting your video on the cutting board.

Step 4: Trim the Video

Select your video, click "Trim," and adjust the sliders to choose your start and end times.

Use the preview window to play the video and see exactly where you want your cut. It’s like sculpting a masterpiece—only you’re working with time instead of clay.

Step 5: Save the Video

Click "Finish Video" and choose your desired export settings.

After trimming, save your work by finishing the video. Pick the quality that suits your needs, whether it’s high-definition for YouTube or something smaller for quick sharing.

Once you’ve completed these steps, your video will be neatly trimmed and saved on your computer. You can share it, upload it, or keep it for your personal collection.

Tips for Cutting Videos on Windows

• Use Keyboard Shortcuts: They speed up the editing process. Learn a few, like "Ctrl + Z," to undo mistakes quickly.
• Preview Often: Regularly check your work in the preview window to ensure you’re cutting at the right spots.
• Experiment with Different Cuts: Don’t be afraid to try different start and end points to see what feels right.
• Keep Original Files Safe: Always have a backup of your original video in case you want to make further edits.
• Explore Additional Features: Windows Video Editor has more tools like filters and text overlays for added creativity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What video formats are supported?

Windows Video Editor supports most common formats like MP4, WMV, and AVI.

Can I add music to my trimmed video?

Yes, you can add music by selecting the "Background Music" option in the editor.

Is there a limit to video length?

While there’s no strict limit, longer videos may take more time to process, depending on your computer’s performance.

Can I undo a trim?

Yes, you can use the "Undo" button or restart the trimming process if you need to make changes.

Do I need special software?

No, Windows comes with built-in tools that are easy to use for basic video editing.

Summary

1. Open the Video Editor.
2. Create a New Project.
3. Add Your Video.
4. Trim the Video.
5. Save the Video.

Conclusion

Cutting videos on Windows is straightforward once you get the hang of it. The built-in tools make it accessible for beginners, while also offering some creative features for more advanced users. Whether you’re editing a family video or preparing content for your social media, these steps will help you achieve a polished result.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t hesitate to play around with different cuts and features. As you become more comfortable, you might explore additional software for even more editing capabilities. For now, you’ve got all you need to start trimming videos on Windows like a pro. So, fire up your computer, get those creative juices flowing, and happy editing!