How to Cut Video in Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Cutting a video in Windows 10 can be a breeze if you know what tools to use and where to find them. The built-in Photos app, surprisingly, has a handy video editor that’s perfect for simple editing tasks like cutting. You just import your video, select the part you want to keep, and save it as a new file. It’s quick, easy, and doesn’t require any third-party software.

Cutting a Video in Windows 10

In this guide, you’ll learn how to cut a video using the Photos app in Windows 10. The steps are straightforward, and you don’t need to be a tech guru to follow along.

Step 1: Open the Photos App

First, click on the Start menu and open the Photos app.

The Photos app is pre-installed on Windows 10, so you don’t need to download anything extra. It’s usually pinned to the Start menu for easy access.

Step 2: Import Your Video

Choose your video file by clicking on “New Video” and then “New Video Project.”

This step allows you to create a new project within the app. You can import videos from your computer by navigating through your folders and selecting the desired file.

Step 3: Create a New Video Project

Click “Add” > “From this PC” to include your video in the project library.

Adding the video to the project library allows you to use the app’s editing features. Once imported, you’ll see a thumbnail of your video in the library.

Step 4: Drag the Video to the Storyboard

Drag your video from the project library to the storyboard at the bottom.

The storyboard is where you’ll make adjustments to your video. It’s like a timeline showing how your final video will look.

Step 5: Trim the Video

Select the “Trim” button and adjust the sliders to the start and end points of the section you want to keep.

Sliding the markers to your desired start and end points allows you to cut out unnecessary parts. The preview window helps you see what the final cut will look like.

Step 6: Finish With “Done”

Click “Done” to finish trimming, and then “Export or Share” to save your video.

After trimming, you can save or share the newly edited video. The app allows you to export it in various resolutions depending on your needs.

Once you’ve completed these steps, your video will have been trimmed down to just the parts you want to keep. You’ll have a new file saved on your computer, ready to share or upload.

Tips for Cutting a Video in Windows 10

  • Use the preview window to ensure you’re cutting at the right points.
  • Save your work frequently to avoid losing edits.
  • Consider backing up your original video before editing.
  • Experiment with different resolutions when exporting to find the best quality.
  • Use the split tool if you need to cut multiple sections from the video.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other apps besides Photos to cut videos in Windows 10?

Yes, there are third-party apps like VLC Media Player and Adobe Premiere Elements that can also cut videos.

Is the Photos app available on all Windows 10 computers?

Yes, it comes pre-installed on all Windows 10 systems.

Can I merge clips using the Photos app?

Yes, the Photos app allows you to merge clips within the same project.

Does trimming a video reduce its quality?

Trimming doesn’t impact video quality unless you change the resolution during export.

Are there limits on video length for editing in the Photos app?

While there’s no strict limit, longer videos may take more time to process.

Summary

  1. Open the Photos app.
  2. Import your video.
  3. Create a new video project.
  4. Drag the video to the storyboard.
  5. Trim the video.
  6. Finish with “Done.”

Conclusion

Cutting a video in Windows 10 using the Photos app is a practical solution for quick and simple edits. The app’s intuitive interface makes it accessible to nearly everyone, eliminating the need for more complex software unless you’re doing professional-level editing. Plus, keeping your editing in-house on Windows means you can skip the hassle of downloading and learning new tools.

If you’re a beginner, this method is a fantastic way to dip your toes into video editing without feeling overwhelmed. Once you get comfortable, you can explore more features like adding music or text to make your videos even more engaging.

And remember, practice makes perfect. The more you experiment with different cuts and edits, the more proficient you’ll become. For those looking for a bit more depth, there are plenty of online tutorials and resources to expand your skills. Happy editing, and may your videos tell the stories you envision!

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