How to Use CapCut for Beginners

Learn CapCut basics: import videos, edit clips, add effects, and export your first project. Complete beginner's guide to mobile video editing.

1. Download and open CapCut. Install CapCut from the App Store or Google Play Store. Open the app and tap 'New project' on the main screen. Grant camera roll permissions when prompted to access your videos and photos.
2. Import your video clips. Select the videos or photos you want to edit from your camera roll. Tap each clip to add it to your selection, then tap 'Add' at the bottom. Your clips appear on the timeline at the bottom of the screen in the order you selected them.
3. Trim and arrange your clips. Tap any clip on the timeline to select it. Drag the white handles at the edges to trim the clip shorter. To split a clip, position the white playhead where you want to cut and tap 'Split' from the bottom toolbar. Drag clips left or right to reorder them.
4. Add transitions between clips. Tap the small square between two clips on the timeline. Select 'Transition' from the menu that appears. Choose from options like fade, slide, or zoom transitions. Adjust the duration using the slider at the bottom.
5. Apply filters and effects. Select a clip and tap 'Filter' in the bottom toolbar to apply color grading. For motion effects, tap 'Effects' and choose from categories like Glitch, Retro, or Trending. Tap any effect to preview it, then tap the checkmark to apply.
6. Add text and music. Tap 'Text' to add titles or captions. Type your text, choose a font style, and drag it to position on screen. For music, tap 'Audio' then 'Sounds' to browse CapCut's library, or 'Extract audio' to use sound from your clips.
7. Preview and export your video. Tap the play button at the bottom to preview your complete video. When satisfied, tap the export arrow in the top right corner. Choose your resolution (1080p recommended), frame rate, and quality settings. Tap 'Export' to save the video to your camera roll.