9 Video Editing Tips to Boost Engagement in 2024

Want to make your videos stand out in 2024? Here's how to edit them for maximum engagement:

1. Hook viewers fast with strong openings (5-10 seconds)

2. Vary video speed and flow to maintain interest

3. Use moving graphics and color grading for visual appeal

4. Improve sound quality with proper mic use and audio editing

5. Add useful text overlays and captions

6. Create smooth scene transitions

7. Use quick cuts to keep the pace up

8. Include B-roll footage for context

9. Optimize videos for different social platforms

Quick comparison of ideal video lengths:

Key takeaway: Tailor your edits to each platform, focus on grabbing attention quickly, and keep content concise and valuable to viewers.

Related video from YouTube

What is Video Engagement?

Video engagement goes beyond simple view counts. It's about how viewers interact with your content.

Think of it as a digital "lean in" moment. It measures how well your video captures and maintains attention.

Video engagement typically includes:

• Views

• Watch time

• Interactions (likes, comments, shares)

• Click-throughs

Why does this matter? Because engagement shows if your message is hitting the mark.

In 2021, U.S. adults watched online videos for 167 minutes daily on average. That's a lot of potential viewers. But with so much content out there, standing out is key.

High engagement? Your video's resonating. Low engagement? Time to rethink your strategy.

Here's why engagement is crucial:

1. Algorithm influence

Platforms like YouTube and Facebook favor high-engagement videos.

2. Content quality indicator

Long watch times and interactions suggest you're doing something right.

3. Action driver

Engaged viewers are more likely to follow your call-to-action.

4. Community builder

Comments and shares create conversations around your brand.

How to measure engagement? Here's a simple formula:

Example: 10,000 views and 400 interactions = 4% engagement rate.

But remember, engagement varies across platforms. Here's a quick comparison:

These aren't hard rules, but they give you a general idea.

The key? Track your own trends. Are your videos becoming more or less engaging over time?

This memory factor is huge for businesses. After all, 90% of consumers say videos help them make buying decisions.

So, as you create videos, think engagement. Every edit should work to keep viewers watching, interacting, and coming back for more.

Make Strong Video Openings

The first few seconds of your video can make or break viewer engagement. Here's how to create openings that hook viewers:

Keep it short and snappy

Aim for 5-10 second intros. Any longer and you'll lose viewers before you even start.

Start with a bang

Grab attention fast:

• Ask a question that makes people think

• Drop a jaw-dropping fact

• Start with something funny or unexpected

• Tease what's coming up

Use visuals that pop

Make scrollers stop dead in their tracks:

• Use high-quality, eye-catching footage

• Add bold text overlays with key points

• Include attention-grabbing graphics or animations

Add context quickly

Let viewers know what they're in for:

• Show your channel name or logo (but don't lead with it)

• State what the video's about

• Use on-screen text for important info

Sound matters

The right audio can make a big difference:

• Pick music that fits your video's vibe

• Use sound effects to highlight key moments

• Make sure your audio is crystal clear

Know your platform

Different platforms need different approaches:

Examples that work

1. Video montage

"Worth It" on YouTube uses fast food visuals with upbeat music. It's quick and shows exactly what the channel's about.

2. Character intro

The Try Guys often start with quick, funny scenes. It's like meeting a friend - you're instantly connected.

3. Direct address

Many YouTubers just talk straight to the camera. It's simple, but it works.

2. Adjust Video Speed and Flow

Want to keep viewers glued to your content? Play with video speed and flow. Here's how:

Mix up your speeds

Use normal, slow-mo, and sped-up footage:

• Slow motion: For dramatic moments or details

• Fast motion: For time-lapses or long processes

• Normal speed: Your baseline

Match music tempo

Sync video speed with your soundtrack. It's not just cool - it helps viewers feel the rhythm.

Use speed for storytelling

• Slow down: Emotional moments

• Speed up: Action sequences

• Normal speed: Dialogue or key info

Smooth transitions

Use speed ramping to ease between paces. Tools like Wondershare Filmora help adjust speed at specific points.

Cut ruthlessly

Keep it tight:

• Trim to essentials

• Cut anything that doesn't move the story

• Use quick cuts for a fast pace

Example: Walking through a door

Pro breakdown:

1. Wide shot: Approach

2. Close-up: Hand on handle

3. Medium shot: Enter

4. Reverse angle: New room

5. Wide shot: Door closes

Each shot is brief, keeping the pace snappy.

This applies to your entire video. Keep tweaking speeds and cuts to maintain that initial hook.

3. Use Moving Graphics and Colors

Let's talk about making your videos pop with motion graphics and color grading.

Motion Graphics: More Than Just Eye Candy

Motion graphics aren't just fancy effects. They're storytelling tools. Here's how to use them:

• Keep it simple

• Match your brand

• Animate with purpose

For example, use animated text overlays to highlight key points in talking head videos.

Color Grading: Setting the Mood

Color grading isn't just for the big screen. It's for you too:

• Use LUTs for quick, pro-looking grades

• Keep it consistent across your video

• Match colors to the mood (cool blues for calm, warm oranges for energy)

Color Grading Styles

Tools You Can Use

You don't need to break the bank:

• VEGAS Pro: User-friendly color grading

• DaVinci Resolve: Powerful, free option

• Adobe Premiere Pro: Industry standard for motion graphics

Quick Tips

1. Add imperfections for a natural feel

2. Get your timing right

3. Don't overdo overlays

4. Improve Sound Quality

Bad audio can kill your video faster than you can say "subscribe." Here's how to fix it:

Use the Right Mic

Ditch your camera's built-in mic. Get a lavalier microphone:

• A $30 lav mic can work wonders

• $50 gets you a decent one that plugs into your camera

• Want to splurge? Wireless kits like the Rode Link cost about $400

Record Clean Audio

Find a quiet space, use a mic stand, wear headphones, and use a pop filter. Simple, but effective.

Edit for Clarity

Import your clips into software like Wondershare Filmora. Use the denoise feature, adjust volume and pitch, and play with the Audio Equalizer.

Mix It Right

Balance is key:

• Voices over background sounds

• Separate tracks for multiple speakers

• Music should complement, not overpower

Add Background Music

Music sets the mood. Keep it low, match the emotion, and use it for transitions.

Mind Your Levels

Balance is everything. Aim for consistent volume, use compression, and apply equalization for better overall sound.

5. Add Useful Text to Videos

Videos without text? That's so last year. Here's why you need to jump on the text train:

• 3 in 4 people watch videos on mute

• 4 in 5 young viewers want subtitles

• Captions can boost view time by 12%

Let's break down how to make your videos pop with text.

Captions and Subtitles

Captions aren't just nice to have - they're essential. They make your content accessible to everyone, including those who can't hear well.

Here's how to add captions:

1. Use AI tools like Submagic for quick transcripts

2. Double-check AI captions for mistakes

3. Want perfection? Try Rev.com ($1.25/minute) or Temi ($0.25/minute)

Moving Text

Static text is boring. Moving text grabs eyeballs. Here's the secret sauce:

• Time text with key points in your video

• Use cool effects like fading or bouncing

• Keep it short and snappy - think highlights, not novels

Font Matters

Your font can make or break your video. Quick guide:

Pro tip: For YouTube thumbnails, go big or go home. Use font size 75+ so it's clear on all screens.

Color and Contrast

Make your text stand out:

• High-contrast colors = better visibility

• Match text color to your brand or video theme

• Test your text on different backgrounds

Remember: Text should help, not hurt. It should make your video better, not fight for attention.

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6. Make Smooth Scene Changes

Scene changes can make or break your video. Here's how to nail those transitions:

Types of Transitions

When to Use What

1. Cuts: Your go-to. Use for most changes to keep things moving.

2. Fades: Great for scene starts/ends. Think The Godfather for major plot shifts.

3. Dissolves: Show time passing. A quick 2-3 second dissolve moves your story without jarring viewers.

4. Wipes: Use rarely. Star Wars made them famous, but they can feel old-school if overused.

5. Match Cuts: Link scenes visually. The CSBSJU Christmas video nailed this, keeping subjects centered while changing backgrounds.

Pro Tips

• Keep it subtle. Transitions should guide, not distract.

• Be consistent. Pick a style and stick with it.

• Don't forget audio. A well-timed sound effect can smooth visual changes.

• Master the basics before trying fancy stuff.

Common Mistakes

• Avoid flashy transitions

• Skip star wipes (unless you're going retro)

• Don't make jarring changes in pace or style

Remember: Your transitions should serve the story, not steal the show.

7. Use Quick Cuts to Keep Pace

Quick cuts can make your videos more dynamic and engaging. Here's how to use them effectively:

What Are Quick Cuts?

Quick cuts are abrupt transitions between shots. They:

• Speed up the pace

• Show time passing quickly

• Convey urgency or excitement

• Highlight key moments

When to Use Quick Cuts

• Fast-paced sequences

• Vlogs and YouTube content

• Music videos

• Emotional moments

How to Use Quick Cuts Effectively

1. Match the beat

Cut to the rhythm of background music. Many YouTubers use this for a pro feel.

2. Consider viewer comprehension

Give viewers time to grasp scene changes. As editor Leo Trombetta says:

3. Use object and camera movement

Match motion between cuts for smoother flow. "Mad Max: Fury Road" (2015) does this well.

4. Mind your pacing

A Cornell study found average shot length dropped from 12 seconds in 1930 to 2.5 seconds today. Viewers want faster pacing.

5. Create tension

"Trainspotting" used axial jump cuts to amp up a job interview scene.

6. Convey emotion

"The Shining" uses jump cuts to intensify horror, switching between past and present.

Quick Cut Dos and Don'ts

The goal? Enhance your story, don't distract from it. Director Alexander Mackendrick notes:

Use that shock to keep viewers hooked.

8. Include Extra Footage

B-roll is your secret weapon for leveling up your videos. It's the extra shots that make your main footage shine.

Why bother with B-roll? Here's the deal:

• Hides edits

• Spices up visuals

• Sets the scene

• Keeps things moving

Make B-roll work for you:

1. Plan it out

Before you hit record, list your B-roll needs:

• Scene details

• Topic-related actions

• Mood-setting shots

2. Overshoot

Aim for 4-6 minutes of B-roll per 1 minute of final video. Options are good.

3. Quality matters

B-roll isn't just filler. Pay attention to:

• How it looks

• Lighting

• Steady shots

4. Use it smart

5. Stock footage works too

Can't shoot your own? Stock footage can save the day. Just make sure it fits your style.

B-roll isn't about padding time. It's about making your story pop. As Hiroshi Hara, a pro behind the camera, puts it:

9. Fit Videos to Different Platforms

In 2024, your videos need to fit each social media platform like a glove. Why? Because each one has its own "Goldilocks zone" for video length and format.

Let's break it down:

Instagram

Instagram's a buffet of video options:

Pro tip: Keep feed videos under a minute. For Stories, think quick and snappy - 15 seconds or less per slide, with 3-7 slides total.

TikTok

TikTok's all about short and punchy. Sure, you can post up to 10 minutes, but the real magic? It's in the first 15 seconds. Grab 'em fast or lose 'em.

Facebook

Facebook's a mixed bag:

• Under 1 minute: Viral potential

• 1-3 minutes: Standard posts

• 3+ minutes: Long-form content

LinkedIn

LinkedIn's crowd likes it concise. Aim for 30 seconds to 5 minutes, but 30 seconds is the sweet spot for highest completion rates.

YouTube

YouTube's the long-form king. But length varies:

• How-to guides: 5-10 minutes

• Entertainment: 10-15 minutes

• In-depth tutorials: 15+ minutes

Twitter

Twitter's motto? Short and sweet. 20 to 45 seconds is your engagement bullseye.

Pinterest

Pinterest users want quick visual hits. 15 to 30 seconds is your target.

Want to dominate across platforms? Here's your game plan:

1. Create a longer "main" video for YouTube or Facebook.

2. Chop it up for other platforms.

3. Use platform-specific tricks (think Instagram's Boomerang or TikTok's effects).

4. Always, ALWAYS optimize for mobile. That's where most people are watching.

Wrap-up

Let's recap the 9 video editing tips to boost engagement in 2024:

1. Grab attention with strong openings

2. Keep viewers watching with good speed and flow

3. Add visual interest with moving graphics

4. Enhance the experience with quality sound

5. Reinforce key points with useful text

6. Maintain flow with smooth transitions

7. Keep the pace up with quick cuts

8. Add context with extra footage

9. Maximize reach with platform-specific edits

Video editing gets better with practice. Try new things and find your style.

Quick start checklist:

• [ ] Plan with a storyboard

• [ ] Nail the first 5-15 seconds

• [ ] Keep videos short (30-60 seconds)

• [ ] Add subtitles

• [ ] Track performance with analytics

Derek's right: put your audience first.

Joe's got a point. Watch those analytics to keep improving.

Now, start editing. Make videos that look good AND connect with your audience. Go for it!

Helpful Tools and Learning Resources

Want to level up your video editing skills? Here's what you need:

Video Editing Software

For beginners:

• CyberLink PowerDirector 365: Fast rendering, clear interface. Perfect for YouTubers.

• Apple iMovie: Free for Mac. Simple and straightforward.

• Clipchamp: Browser-based. Great for social media content.

For pros:

• Adobe Premiere Pro: Industry standard. Packed with features.

• Apple Final Cut Pro: Powerful Mac option. YouTuber favorite.

• DaVinci Resolve: Free version available. Used in Hollywood.

Learning Resources

1. YouTube Channels

Free, high-quality tutorials:

• Cinecom.net: Premiere Pro and After Effects (2.7M subs)

• This Guy Edits: In-depth film editing (491K subs)

• Justin Odisho: Daily Adobe tutorials (1.06M subs)

• Peter McKinnon: Practical tips (5.93M subs)

2. Online Courses

Check out Udemy for structured, pro-taught courses. Learn at your own pace.

3. YouTube Studio

Don't ignore YouTube's free editor. Great for quick edits and basics.

FAQs

How to keep viewers engaged?

Want to boost viewer engagement? Here's what you need to do:

1. Hook viewers FAST. You've got 5-15 seconds. Use eye-catching visuals or ask an intriguing question.

2. Tailor video length to the platform:Instagram: Under 60 secondsFacebook: 20-90 secondsTwitter: About 45 seconds

3. Use jump cuts. Cut out pauses to keep things snappy.

4. Add captions. 85% of Facebook users watch videos on mute.

5. Tell a story. GoPro does this well, showing off their product through compelling narratives.

6. Optimize for search. Use keywords in titles, descriptions, and tags.

7. Create strong thumbnails. Make them eye-catching and accurate.

8. Include calls to action. Tell viewers what to do next.

9. Analyze and improve. Use YouTube's Audience Retention report to spot high and low points.

Engagement isn't just about views. It's about building relationships and driving action. As Michelle Martin says:

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