What Is Video Editing? A Chill Explanation for Total Newbies

What Is Video Editing - The first time I heard the term “video editing,” my brain immediately went to something super complicated. Like, “Oh this is definitely for genius-level folks with expensive software and high-end computers.”
But… not really, bro. Or sis. Seriously.

So here’s the deal:
Video editing is basically the process of rearranging, cutting, adding, or tweaking parts of a video to make the final result more enjoyable to watch.
Whether it’s for YouTube, Instagram Reels, TikTok, or even a fancy office presentation — editing is key.

I Was Confused Too, Don’t Worry

My very first experience with editing? It was when a friend asked me to help make a birthday video for his girlfriend (sweet, right? Even though it wasn’t my girl haha).

He handed me a bunch of random clips. Some were sideways, some were shaky, and the audio... oh man, don’t even ask.

All I could do back then was open YouTube and search for tutorials. I ended up learning CapCut — yeah, that free and super user-friendly app. That was my first editing gig.

Did I fail? Of course.
But that’s when I realized: video editing isn’t about fancy software, it’s about the story you want to tell.

So, What Is Video Editing, Actually?

Video editing = putting together and polishing your footage so it becomes one clear, fun, and emotional story.

Usually that means stuff like:

• Cutting out boring bits (like wiping the camera or saying “uhh wait a sec…”).
• Adding background music to set the mood.
• Throwing in subtitles, text, or transitions to keep it engaging.
• Fixing brightness or colors so it doesn’t look dull.
• And most importantly: keeping people watching.

Beginner Video Editing Tools I’ve Tried (So You Don’t Have To)

Here’s the big question I get a lot: “What software should I use?”

My answer: it depends. But if you’re just starting out, don’t jump straight into Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve. That interface can give you a migraine.

Start light and free. Here’s what I recommend:

• CapCut – Lifesaver. Drag and drop, free music, auto subtitles, templates. Perfect for Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts.
• VN Editor – Super easy for trimming and adding music.
• iMovie – Built-in if you’ve got a Mac or iPhone. Crazy simple.
• Canva Video Editor – Surprisingly solid! Especially good for promotional content.
• Shotcut or OpenShot – Great free options for laptops.

Tip: Pick one, learn 2–3 basic features, then slowly branch out.

Things I’ve Learned (Mostly From Dumb Mistakes)

Over-Editing Is a Trap

I wanted it to look “cool,” but ended up confusing the viewer. Spinning transitions, random popping text, blaring music — people just skipped the video.

Lesson learned:less is more. Good editing makes a video clearer, not flashier.

Now I Stick to These Rules:

• Trim the beginning and end — Most dead air lives there.
• Use background music lightly — It should support the voice, not drown it.
• Use jump cuts wisely — Great for pacing, but don’t go overboard.
• Add B-roll footage — Like coffee clips when talking about coffee. Easy win.

Why Editing Is SO Important for Content Creators

I once uploaded a raw video — no editing, no music, no text. The views? Almost nonexistent.

But the edited version? Boom. Chill music, timed captions, zoom-ins. Engagement went way up.

Video editing helps with:

• Telling a story.
• Triggering emotions.
• Looking more professional — even with an old phone.

Editing Is About Consistency, Not Talent

I didn’t go to film school. I learned editing by repeating the same clip ten times just to cut one awkward line. No joke.

You’ll improve fast if you:

• Edit every week.
• Watch others’ videos and study their rhythm.
• Accept feedback (even when it stings, Lol).

Sometimes I rewatch my first-ever edit and think,
“Who the heck made this cringy mess?” lol
But that’s a good thing — it means I’ve grown.

Extra Tips for New Editors

• Start short. Edit 30–60 second clips so you don’t feel overwhelmed.
• Record clean footage. The better your raw footage, the easier the edit.
• Organize your files. Name them properly!
• Save backups. Software crashes. “Save As” is your best friend.

What’s Next After the Basics?

Once you're comfy with the basic tools, start exploring:

• Color grading
• Motion graphics
• Green screen effects
• Sound design

But seriously, take your time.
Focus on stories first. Don’t just edit — be a storyteller.

Final Thoughts: Every Great Editor Was Once a Clueless Newbie

If you feel like editing is hard… that’s normal. I felt that too.

Stick with it and learn bit by bit, and you’ll reach a point where editing becomes second nature.

Most important thing?
Don’t be afraid to mess up.
Don’t wait for perfection to start.

A half-edited video that gets uploaded is way better than a perfect video that never leaves your hard drive.

So yeah… open your editing app. Cut one clip. Add some music. Export it. Watch it back. Enjoy the ride.

And remember: Every video you edit gets you one step closer to being the awesome content creator you’re meant to be.