How to cut and trim videos in KineMaster

One of the most essential and widely used features within the KineMaster app is the ability to cut and trim clips on the timeline to achieve precise edits.

In this detailed tutorial, we will explain step-by-step how to select, cut, and trim clips in KineMaster, allowing you to make the most of its tools and achieve professional results.

How to Select and Organise Clips on the Timeline

The first step in any editing project is to organise your clips on the timeline efficiently. KineMaster offers an intuitive interface that allows you to perform this task quickly and easily.

Importing Clips to the Timeline

To start editing, you need to import the videos you wish to use. Follow these steps:

• Open KineMaster and select the “+” button to create a new project.
• Select the aspect ratio (16:9, 9:16, 1:1, etc.), depending on the platform where you plan to publish the video.
• In the editing screen, select “Media” and navigate to the folder where your videos are saved.
• Select the clips and add them to the timeline.

Once the clips are on the timeline, you can drag and rearrange them in the order you want them to appear in the final video.

Timeline Navigation

The timeline is where you’ll do most of your editing. To work with precision, it’s important to understand how to navigate it:

1. You can zoom in or out on the timeline view by pinching with two fingers. This allows you to make more precise edits.
2. To move around, simply swipe left or right to scroll along the timeline.
3. Select a clip to highlight it; when you do, various editing tools will be displayed.

How to Cut Clips in KineMaster

Once your clips are organised, the next step is usually to cut the clips to remove unnecessary parts or to split a clip into smaller sections.

KineMaster offers simple yet effective tools to accomplish this process.

Basic Cutting Tool

To make a basic cut, follow these steps:

• Select the clip you want to cut on the timeline.
• Several options will appear in a side menu. Select “Trim/Split”.
• You’ll be presented with several cutting options: Trim to Playhead, Split at Playhead, and Split and Delete One Part. Choose the one that best suits your needs.

Once a clip is split, you can move, delete, or modify the resulting parts individually. This is especially useful for creating transitions or removing unwanted sections from the video.

Tips for Precise Cuts

When aiming for precise cuts, use the following strategies:

1. Zoom in on the timeline before making the cut, allowing you to work with greater accuracy.
2. Preview the cut point multiple times before confirming it to ensure you’re cutting or splitting at the correct spot.

How to Trim Clips in KineMaster

Trimming is another key process in video editing. Trimming in KineMaster means adjusting the clip’s duration, shortening it from either the beginning or the end.

Trimming from the Beginning or End

To trim a clip, follow these steps:

• Select the clip you want to trim on the timeline.
• Touch one of the clip’s edges (either at the start or end) and drag inward to shorten its duration.
• As you drag, a preview box will show you the new starting or ending point of the clip.

This method is perfect for adjusting the video’s pace and removing unwanted sections like silences or dull moments.

How to Avoid Harsh Cuts

To ensure the trim is smooth and natural, keep the following in mind:

1. Try to trim during natural pauses in conversation or where the visual change is less noticeable.
2. If you’re working with music clips, make the trims on beats or rhythm changes to avoid abrupt audio cuts.

Final Project Optimisation

Once you’ve cut and trimmed all your clips, it’s crucial to review the edit to ensure everything flows correctly.

Below are some best practices:

Reviewing the Full Timeline

Do a final playback of the entire video and observe the flow of the cuts and trims. Pay close attention to:

• Transitions between clips: Ensure there are no abrupt cuts or misaligned transitions.
• Audio and video synchronisation: Check that the audio follows the video correctly after the cuts.
• Overall duration: Ensure the video maintains a suitable pace, neither too fast nor too slow.

Applying Transitions and Effects

To give your project a more professional finish, you can add transitions between clips or apply effects to smooth out changes.

KineMaster offers a wide gallery of transitions and filters:

1. Select the cut point between two clips on the timeline.
2. A “Transition” option will appear in the menu. Tap it and choose from the various options available.
3. Adjust the transition duration as needed.

Transitions can significantly enhance the visual flow of your video and add a more dynamic touch to the editing.

Exporting the Edited Video

When you’re satisfied with your edit, the final step is to export the video. KineMaster offers multiple export options depending on your needs:

• Tap the “Export” button in the top right corner.
• Select the desired resolution, bitrate, and frame rate. For most platforms, a 1080p resolution at 30 fps is sufficient.
• Press “Export” and wait for the process to complete.

Once exported, your video will be ready to share on social media, video platforms, or any other medium you prefer.

Cutting and trimming clips in KineMaster is a simple but vital process for achieving a professional edit. With the right tools and following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you can refine your editing skills, achieving results that stand out and meet your creative expectations.