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Click here to try Descript for free

1. You can edit video as fast as you can edit a document

This was the mind-blowing feature that kicked off my love for Descript. Instead of sitting through long recordings full of un-funny bloopers, the software quickly generates a transcript of every word spoken (including the ums and uhs – more on that below). Then you can quickly edit the transcript, and the video will be edited to match!

Hint: If the last time you say a line while recording is usually your best take, edit the document/video backward.

No More Memorizing Scripts…

Because editing is so fast and easy, there is no need to memorize scripts anymore (or even write them if you speak well with bullet points!).

I simply have an idea of what I’m going to say, or in some cases I write bullet points. Then when I record I look at my notes, then look at the camera and say the lines. Then repeat.

This solves another problem – trying to make eye contact with the camera while also trying to look at your notes!

2. You can record right into the software

The best place to record your videos is wherever is most convenient, right?

So if you’re always on the go, your phone’s camera is your best friend.

But if you are at your desk a lot, you can use Descript’s recorder to record your videos right into the software using your webcam. This means no wasting valuable time transfering files from your camera to your computer.

This may not seem like a big deal, but every minute saved adds up!

Click here to try Descript for free

3. Get your video ~80% edited in a couple of clicks

The first thing I do after recording a video into Descript (or importing it) is use a feature called “Shorten word gaps.”

It will remove any extra silence on the video, usually unecessary long pauses between lines. You tell it the length of gaps you want removed.

For example, when editing my short-form videos for Facebook, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, I have it remove anything longer than 0.1 seconds.

Next I apply a template that adds beautiful captions and more. Descript won’t let me share my exact Reels template with you, but I recorded this video to show you how to recreate it in your account:

After those couple of clicks my 5 minute recording often ends up down to 45 seconds or so, almost ready to go!

4. Descript’s AI features are amazing and always evolving

Descript basically has ChatGPT built in, so you can do amazing things in no time at all. I shared more in this video:

5. Add the perfect B-roll footage by simply dragging and dropping it in

After editing the words you say (and having the video automatically change to match), you can quickly choose sections you want a different video clip to appear on top of your speaking. And all it takes is dragging the video clip on top of the words where you want it to appear.

Even if you don’t have other video you’ve shot, Descript gives you access to a library of professional video to choose from at no extra charge!

Click here to try Descript for free

6. Quickly add the internet’s most beautiful captions

Did you know that 85% of video on Facebook is watched without sound?

Captions are essential for social media video if you want as many people as possible to consume your content. Even if people have the sound on while watching, seeing the worlds while hearing them increases understanding.

In Descript you can quickly add beautiful captions in your brand colors (or any color).

Here’s an example from one of my Instagram Reels, complete with the karaoke style where the word being spoken is highlighted:

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A post shared by Jerry Potter (@mrjerrypotter)

7. Easy to have your team edit (even if they have no special skills)

If someone on your team can edit a document, they can now edit your videos!

That means no need to hire an expert at their high rates.

That alone justifies the low cost of Descript’s paid plans.

Click here to try Descript for free

The one reason Descript isn’t best for you

Is Descript right for everyone?

Almost.

If your videos don’t have much dialogue, then as of right now another video editing tool might serve you better.

But otherwise Descript is perfect for anyone who wants to create social media videos fast, without sacrificing quality.

I encourage you to click the button below and try it for free!

Links & Resources

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