How To Cut A YouTube Video That’s Not Yours

So you’ve stumbled upon a YouTube video that you absolutely love, but there’s a part in the middle that you want to trim out. No worries, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of cutting a YouTube video that’s not yours. Whether you want to remove an irrelevant section or create a shorter version to share with your friends, we’ll show you how to easily edit any YouTube video to meet your needs.

Understanding Copyright and Permissions

Understanding YouTube’s copyright policy

YouTube has a strict copyright policy in place to protect the rights of content creators. This policy ensures that unauthorized use of copyrighted material is not allowed on the platform. When you upload a YouTube video, you are granting YouTube a license to distribute your content, while still retaining your ownership rights. It’s important to familiarize yourself with YouTube’s copyright policy to avoid any infringement issues.

Guidance on Fair use policy

Fair use is an exception to copyright law that allows limited use of copyrighted material without permission from the copyright holder. While the concept of fair use may vary depending on the jurisdiction, it generally allows for the use of copyrighted material for purposes such as criticism, commentary, news reporting, teaching, and research. However, it is important to note that fair use is a complex legal concept, and each case is evaluated on its own merits. It’s always advisable to consult an attorney or copyright expert if you have any doubts about fair use.

Securing permissions from original content creator

If you want to use a YouTube video that is not yours, it is always recommended to seek permission from the original content creator. Contact the creator and explain how you intend to use their video. Be specific about the purpose and duration of use. If you receive permission, be sure to keep a record of the written consent. This will help protect you in case of any disputes or claims of copyright infringement.

Finding the YouTube video

Searching for the video on YouTube

To cut a YouTube video, the first step is to find the video that you want to work with. You can simply go to the YouTube website and use the search bar to type in relevant keywords or the title of the video. YouTube’s search algorithm will present you with a list of videos matching your search query.

Selecting the desired video

Once you have found the video you want to cut, click on it to open it in a new tab. Take a moment to watch the video in its entirety to understand its content and determine which sections you want to keep and which parts you want to trim.

Checking the video quality

Before proceeding with cutting the video, make sure to check the video quality. YouTube provides different quality options, ranging from 144p to 4K, depending on the video’s original resolution and your internet connection speed. It’s important to select the highest quality available to ensure the best video editing experience and end result.

Using Online Video Cutters

Introduction to online video cutters

Online video cutters are web-based tools that allow you to trim and edit YouTube videos without the need to download any software. These tools usually offer a user-friendly interface, making it easy for beginners to cut videos with minimal effort.

List of popular online video cutters

There are several popular online video cutters available that you can use to cut YouTube videos. Some of the widely used tools include Kapwing, Clideo, Online Video Cutter, and Adobe Spark. Each of these tools has its own set of features and advantages, so it’s worth exploring them to find the one that best suits your needs.

Step by step guide on how to use online video cutters

Using online video cutters is generally a straightforward process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use these tools:

1. Visit the website of the online video cutter you have selected.
2. Upload the YouTube video that you want to cut. Most tools allow you to import videos directly from YouTube by pasting the video URL or searching for it within the tool.
3. Once the video is imported, you will usually see a visual representation of the video timeline.
4. Drag and drop the markers on the timeline to indicate the start and end points of the section you want to keep. You can preview the selected section to ensure accuracy.
5. After selecting the desired section, you can choose to preview the trimmed video, adjust the volume, add text or other effects if available.
6. Once you are satisfied with the edits, click on the “Export” or “Save” button to generate the trimmed video.
7. The tool will generally provide options for selecting the output format and quality. Choose the settings that best suit your needs.
8. Finally, click on the “Download” or “Save” button to save the trimmed video to your device or cloud storage.

Using Screen Recording Software

Understanding what screen recording software is

Screen recording software allows you to capture video footage directly from your computer screen. This can be useful when you want to capture a YouTube video that’s not yours but can’t find a suitable downloaded version. With screen recording software, you can record the video as it plays on your screen, and then edit or trim it as needed.

List of popular screen recording software

There are various screen recording software options available, each with its own set of features and advantages. Some of the popular choices include OBS Studio, Camtasia, Bandicam, and Screencast-O-Matic. These tools are widely used by professionals and enthusiasts alike and offer different capabilities to meet specific needs.

How to use screen recording software to capture a YouTube video

To use screen recording software, follow these general steps:

1. Download and install the screen recording software of your choice.
2. Open the software and familiarize yourself with the settings and options available.
3. Launch the YouTube video that you want to capture.
4. Set the screen recording software to record the specific area of your screen where the video is playing.
5. Start the recording and let it capture the video in real-time as it plays on your screen.
6. Once the video has finished playing or you have captured the desired section, stop the recording.
7. Some screen recording software allows you to trim or edit the recorded video within the software itself. If not, you can transfer the recorded video to a video editing software for further editing and trimming.

Trimming the Video

Benefits of trimming the video

Trimming a video allows you to remove unnecessary or unwanted parts, making the video more concise and focused. It helps in enhancing the viewer’s experience by eliminating any irrelevant content or moments of downtime. Trimming also reduces the file size, making it easier to store and share the video.

How to determine what parts to trim

When deciding which parts of a YouTube video to trim, consider the purpose of the trimmed video and the specific message or content you want to highlight. Identify any sections that are not directly related to that message and can be safely removed without affecting the overall coherence of the video. It’s important to strike a balance between keeping the video concise and maintaining its original intent.

Steps on how to trim a video using software

To trim a video using software, follow these general steps:

1. Open the video editing software of your choice.
2. Import the video file that you want to trim.
3. Drag and drop the video file onto the timeline or workspace of the software.
4. Locate the trim or cut tool within the software. It is usually represented by scissors or a marker icon.
5. Set the start and end points on the timeline or use the visual editor to select the desired section for trimming.
6. Preview the trimmed section to ensure accuracy.
7. Once you are satisfied with the trimmed section, save the edited video file or export it in the desired format and quality.

Saving and Exporting the Cut Video

Choosing the right file format

When saving the cut video, it’s important to select the appropriate file format that suits your intended use and platform. Common video file formats include MP4, MOV, AVI, and WMV. Consider the compatibility of the file format with the devices and software you plan to use to play the video. MP4 is a widely accepted format with broad compatibility across various platforms.

Selecting an output folder and filename

Before initiating the export process, choose a destination folder on your computer or cloud storage where you want to save the cut video. Give the video a recognizable and descriptive filename to easily identify it later. This will help you stay organized and locate the video when needed.

Understanding compression and quality settings

Video compression allows you to reduce the file size of the video by removing redundant or nonessential information. However, excessive compression can lead to a significant loss in video quality. When exporting the cut video, consider the balance between file size and video quality. Experiment with the compression and quality settings provided by your video editing software to find the optimal balance for your needs.

Initiating the export process

Once you have selected the appropriate file format, output folder, and quality settings, initiate the export process within your video editing software. Depending on the length and complexity of the video, the export process may take some time. Stay patient and wait for the software to complete the exporting process. Once finished, you will have a trimmed video ready for further sharing or editing.

Sharing the Cut Video

Uploading the cut video to YouTube

If you have the necessary permissions and rights, you can upload the cut video to your own YouTube channel. YouTube provides a straightforward interface for uploading videos. Simply log in to your YouTube account, click on the “Upload” button, select the trimmed video file from your device, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the upload process. Keep in mind any copyright restrictions or guidelines when uploading the video.

Sharing the cut video on social media

To share the cut video on social media platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, you can utilize the built-in sharing features provided by these platforms. Visit the social media platform of your choice, create a new post or tweet, and attach the trimmed video file. Add a caption or description to provide context and engage your audience. Click on the “Post” or “Tweet” button to share the video with your followers and friends.

Sending the cut video via email or messaging apps

If you want to share the cut video with specific individuals or groups, you can send it via email or messaging apps. Most email providers and messaging apps allow you to attach video files directly from your device. Compose a new email or message, select the trimmed video file, add any additional message or instructions, and click on the “Send” button. Make sure to respect the recipient’s privacy and any copyright restrictions when sharing the video.

Avoiding Copyright Strikes

Understanding YouTube’s strike system

YouTube operates on a “three-strike” system when it comes to copyright infringement. If you receive three strikes against your YouTube account, your account may be permanently terminated. Copyright owners can report any unauthorized use of their content, and YouTube takes these reports seriously. To avoid copyright strikes, it’s important to respect the rights of content creators and adhere to copyright policies.

How to use copyrighted content legally

To use copyrighted content legally, it’s advisable to obtain permission from the original content creator. Seek their explicit consent, either in writing or digitally, specifying the extent and purpose of use. Additionally, consider utilizing content that falls under fair use guidelines, provided you comply with the principles of fair use. It’s always wise to consult a legal expert if you have any doubts about using copyrighted content.

What to do when you receive a copyright strike

If you receive a copyright strike on YouTube, it’s crucial to take immediate action. YouTube provides a process for users to dispute copyright claims and strikes. Review the details of the copyright strike, gather any evidence or documentation that supports your case, and submit a counter-notification if you believe the claim is invalid. Follow the instructions provided by YouTube and cooperate transparently throughout the process to resolve the strike.

Using Video Editing Software

Choosing the right video editing software

When it comes to cutting YouTube videos, having the right video editing software can make a significant difference in the editing process and end result. There are various video editing software options available, ranging from beginner-friendly to professional-grade tools. Consider factors such as ease of use, available features, compatibility, and your specific editing requirements when choosing the right software for your needs.

Importing the snapped video into the software

Once you have selected and installed the video editing software, you need to import the snapped video that you want to edit. Most video editing software allows you to import videos by either dragging and dropping them into the workspace or using the “Import” or “Add Media” function within the software. Locate the snapped video file on your device and import it into the software.

Trimming the unwanted parts from the video

To trim the unwanted parts from the video using video editing software, follow these general steps:

1. Drag and drop the snapped video file onto the timeline or workspace of the video editing software.
2. Locate the trimming or cutting tool within the software. It is usually represented by scissors or a trim icon.
3. Set the start and end points on the timeline to indicate the parts you want to remove.
4. Preview the trimmed section to ensure accuracy.
5. Once you are satisfied with the trimmed section, save the edited video file or export it in the desired format and quality.

Additional Tips and Precautions

Importance of keeping the video’s original message intact

When cutting a YouTube video, it’s crucial to maintain the integrity and original message of the video. Ensure that the trimmed sections do not alter the context or intent of the video. Be mindful of the content creator’s vision and respect their creative work.

Respecting the video’s owner rights

Always respect the rights of the video’s owner or content creator. Seek permission if necessary and provide proper attribution when using their content. Avoid any unauthorized use that may infringe upon their intellectual property rights.

Maintaining video quality

Throughout the process of cutting, editing, and exporting the video, strive to maintain the highest possible video quality. Avoid excessive compression or degradation of the video during these steps. The final cut should still be visually appealing and enjoyable for viewers.

By following these steps and guidelines, you can successfully cut a YouTube video that’s not yours and create a trimmed version that suits your specific needs. Remember to always respect copyright laws and maintain ethical practices in your video editing endeavors.