Learn the NEW Descript Video Editing in 23 Minutes

I have to say… the new Descript video editing is better than ever.

The video editing functionalities have improved, we have all new AI features, and now there’s a whole new way to record your polished pro-looking videos.

Descript video editing is so much better in the NEW Descript.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to use Descript in one crash course!

The “New” Descript is better than ever, so I put together this Crash Course to get you up and running.

VIDEO: Learn the NEW Descript in 23 Minutes

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Understanding Descript Basics

Descript stands out from other video editors with its unique drive workspace. This Descript video editing feature allows you to organize your projects just like you would on your hard drive or Google Drive. You can create folders, star them for easy access, and keep everything neatly organized. This saves time and reduces headaches down the road. To start a new project, simply hit “Start Project” and choose “Video Project.” You can import videos from Zoom, your hard drive, or record directly within Descript using the new “Rooms” feature.

Importing and Transcribing Videos

Importing a video into Descript is straightforward. Once imported, you have the option to transcribe it. This is useful if you want to edit your video based on the transcript. Keep in mind that your account comes with a limited number of transcription minutes, so use them wisely. Once transcribed, you’ll see your transcript on the left, the playback window in the center, and all the features and functions on the right.

Efficient Video Editing with Descript

Descript is designed to save you time. You can edit your video by highlighting mistakes or silences in the transcript and deleting them. This reflects in the timeline, and vice versa. For more traditional editing, you can split clips and delete sections directly in the timeline. Descript’s AI, known as Underlord, offers additional time-saving features.

Leveraging Underlord AI for Faster Edits

The Underlord AI in Descript is like having an assistant built into your editor. It helps you identify word gaps, silences, and retakes, allowing you to shorten or remove them efficiently. This AI doesn’t take over your editing but assists you in making quicker decisions. For instance, the “Shorten Word Gaps” feature searches for silences and lets you remove them with a single click.

Enhancing Audio with Studio Sound

Descript‘s Studio Sound feature improves your audio quality, especially useful if you’re recording in noisy environments. However, if you’re in a quiet room with a decent microphone, you might not need it. If you do use it, adjust the intensity to avoid distortion.

Removing Filler Words and Editing for Clarity

While Descript offers a “Remove Filler Words” tool, I find that filler words are part of my natural speech. The “Edit for Clarity” function, however, can be useful if you want to refine your video further. Experiment with the intensity level to find what works best for you.

Advanced Descript AI Tools

Descript offers advanced AI tools like eye contact correction and green screen effects. These features take time to process, so plan accordingly. They can significantly enhance your video, bringing you closer to a final product ready for export.

Fine-Tuning Your Edits

My editing philosophy is BFF: Basic, Fine-Tune, Fancy. After using AI to handle the basics, I move to fine-tuning. This involves tightening cuts, adjusting dead space, and ensuring everything flows smoothly. Descript’s keyboard shortcuts and blade tool make this process efficient.

Recording with Descript

Descript‘s recording feature allows you to create remote recording spaces, similar to Zoom or Riverside. You can select your camera and microphone, and even invite others to join. The quality might appear downgraded during recording to save bandwidth, but rest assured, the final output is high quality.

Hidden Shortcuts and Features

Descript is packed with hidden shortcuts that save time. You can duplicate compositions to experiment without fear of losing progress, adjust the playback speed to edit faster, and use highlighters to mark sections for later review. The “Ignore Media” function lets you hide sections without deleting them, offering flexibility in your editing process.

Adding Elements and Captions

Descript allows you to add text, titles, and other elements to your video. You can adjust their timing and position in the timeline. The captions feature creates dynamic captions from your transcript, customizable to fit your style and branding.

Exporting Your Final Video

When you’re ready to export, Descript offers two options: Publish and Export. Publishing is faster and happens in the cloud, while exporting saves directly to your hard drive. I recommend exporting for maximum control over your final file, allowing you to preview and back it up as needed.

Descript is a powerful tool that can transform your video editing process. With its intuitive interface and advanced features, you can create professional-quality videos with ease. If you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to grab my Descript cheat sheet for more tips and tricks!