Best Video Editing Tips to Easily Edit Videos Like a Pro [Guide]

You need more than a high-quality camera to make great videos; mastering the best video editing tips can make your videos stand out.

From trimming and transitions to color grading and sound design, these tips will help you create professional-quality content that captivates your audience.

Let’s dive into the essentials of video editing and take your skills to the next level!

Best video editing tips and tricks

Why Is Video Editing Important?

Video editing is crucial because it transforms raw footage into a cohesive, engaging story that captures attention and communicates a message effectively. 

By trimming unnecessary parts, adding transitions, and enhancing visuals with color correction and effects, editors can create professional-quality content that resonates with audiences. 

The benefits of video editing

Moreover, high-quality editing improves the viewer's experience, increases engagement, and boosts the content’s appeal on platforms like YouTube, social media, or websites. 

Whether for personal projects or business promotions, video editing is an essential step to stand out in today’s visually-driven world.

Must-Have Equipment for Video Editing

Precise and creative editing is essential for turning raw material into a video that will attract your audience. Though you don't need a large or expensive setup to get professional results, you need to have at least the basics. 

Computer

Video editing may be resource-intensive, so make sure your computer features enough processing power and storage to handle your edits. 

Besides, if you're thinking of buying a new computer, be sure it's compatible with editing software. 

Memory/Hard drive

A reliable memory and hard drive are critical for video editing, ensuring smooth workflow and adequate storage for high-resolution files. 

For memory, at least 16GB of RAM is recommended, but 32GB or more is ideal for editing 4K or larger projects. 

Memory or hard drive is crucial

When it comes to hard drives, a combination of SSD and HDD works best—use an SSD for faster boot times and project loading and an HDD for storing large video files.

You may also like: Best external hard drive for video editing

Monitor

A video editing monitor provides the most exact and maximum look at your footage, ensuring that every detail is perfect. You're looking for a monitor with high-quality resolution (4K or above). 

Also, investing in a monitor is vital for preventing eye strain and maintaining overall comfort during extended editing sessions.

Keyboard

A keyboard designed exclusively for video editing may make a huge impact. Short-cut keys can speed up your process and make recording easier. 

Get our recommendations for the best keyboard for video editing in our blog!

Invest in a high-quality keyboard

Graphics card 

Using the best graphics card for video editing is essential to a smooth editing workflow. Your graphics card selection can affect export, playback, and editing speeds, as well as the quality of your previews. 

Headphones or Speakers

High-quality headphones or speakers are essential for precise audio editing and mixing. 

Closed-back headphones are ideal for isolating external noise, allowing you to focus on audio details like dialogue, background music, and sound effects.

You may need headphones

Alternatively, studio monitors (speakers) provide accurate sound reproduction, which is crucial for achieving a balanced audio mix. Choose equipment that ensures clarity and comfort during extended editing sessions.

A chair

A comfortable, ergonomic chair is a must-have for video editors who spend long hours at their workstations. 

Look for a chair with adjustable height, lumbar support, and cushioning to reduce strain and promote proper posture. 

Investing in a high-quality chair not only improves productivity but also prevents fatigue and long-term health issues caused by poor seating.

Choose the Best Video Editing Software

Select the best video editing program

In addition to having crucial equipment, selecting the right video editing software is also essential for achieving your desired results efficiently.

Beginners may benefit from intuitive tools like iMovie or Clipchamp, while professionals often prefer advanced options like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro. 

To explore the best software options in detail, check out our comprehensive guide to the best video editing software.

Dos and Don’ts of Video Editing

Once you've caught what you need, there are several ways to get rid of what you don't and highlight the greatest features of your video. 

Make sure to follow these useful do's and don'ts for your next video editing effort.

Do

• Remember about transitions

Transitions between clips are essential for creating a cohesive narrative, whether you're making a commercial or creative video (or both). 

While the content between the transitions is the heart of the video, if the transition is off, your audience will be distracted and taken out of the moment.

Tips when editing videos

• Review the next day

After completing your edit, take a break and review the video with fresh eyes the next day. This helps catch mistakes, refine details, and ensure the final product aligns with your creative vision.

• Check your analytics

Always review the performance of your edited videos by checking analytics on platforms like YouTube or social media. 

Metrics such as watch time, audience retention, and engagement provide valuable insights into what works and what needs improvement for future edits.

Don’t

• Overdo jump cuts and sound effects

While jump cuts and sound effects can add flair, excessive use can make your video feel chaotic and disorienting. Use them sparingly to maintain a polished, professional look.

Things to avoid when editing videos

• Use the wrong music

Choosing music that doesn’t match the mood or theme of your video can disrupt the viewer's experience. Ensure the music complements the tone and enhances the story you’re telling.

• Forget to save & backup your work

Video editing is time-consuming, and losing your progress due to a crash can be devastating. Save your work frequently and create backups to avoid unexpected data loss.

How to Get Better at Video Editing?

Improving your video editing skills requires practice, creativity, and continuous learning. Start by exploring online resources such as tutorials, forums, and video editing communities where professionals share tips and tricks. 

Platforms like YouTube and Skillshare offer a wide range of beginner-to-advanced tutorials that can help you master new techniques. 

Tips to become more skillful in editing video

For structured learning, consider enrolling in courses from reputable websites like Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, or MasterClass, which provide comprehensive lessons on editing software, color grading, sound design, and storytelling.

Additionally, experimenting with various editing tools and taking on challenging projects can refine your skills over time.