After Reading this You Will be Able to Create Viral Clips from Long Videos in No Time
Making short, bite-sized videos for social media is not straightforward in particular, when your original content is longer, such as a podcast or an interview, a webinar, or a YouTube video. But video-editing short clips that are worthy of going viral is now easier (and faster) than ever because of AI.
Here’s how you can leverage AI tools to simplify your video editing workflow and produce quality content consistently for platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts.
1.Get started with the Right AI Video Editing Tool
There are a few platforms powered exclusively by AI that assist creators in trimming long-form content into short clips. Some popular ones include:
Opus Clip – Automatically detects viral moments in your video and converts them into short-form content with captions and dynamic zoom.
Veed. io – Automatically generates subtitles using AI, resizes for various platforms, and trims quickly.
Pictory – Ability to turn long webinars or zoom recordings into short snippets (highlights) so great for repurposing
Descript – Edit video as if it were a Word doc; remove filler words and awkward pauses in seconds.
Choose the tool per your requirement and budget. Most provide free trials to try before you buy.
2.Upload Your Long-Form Video
After you’ve chosen your tool, upload your video. It could be a YouTube vlog, a podcast recording, or even just a raw Zoom call. Depending on the length of the video, AI tools usually analyze the content within a few minutes.
Let the AI Work Its Magic
- With AI tools utilizing machine learning to identify engaging moments based on:
- Speech patterns (when someone says something emotionally impactful or insightful)
- Showing facial expressions and gestures
- One shows viewer engagement data (for YouTube links)
3.Keywords and topics
Most tools will serve up several short clips for you to choose from each perfectly formatted with subtitles, transitions, and corresponding dimensions for the platform.
4.Tailor Your Clips (Optional, but Recommended)
AI is great and powerful but human touch still matters. You may want to do before you publish:
- Add tone and clarity to captions
- Add your logo or watermark
- Pick background music or sound effects
- Refine the timing of cuts or zooms
This helps maintain brand consistency and a polished appearance in your videos.
5.Best video editing for social media
Top 3 AI tools, based on ease of use, automation and social media optimization.
Opus Clip – Best For Converting Long Videos to Viral Shorts
Best for: YouTubers, Podcasters, Coaches, Creators that want auto-generated clips.
Features:
- AI locates the viral parts, and creates short cuts (15–60 secs)
- Captions, dynamic zooms and emojis
- Ideal for TikTok, Reels and Shorts
- Pros: Super fast, less manual work, high accuracy
Against: Most notable results with talking-head or podcast-style videos
Cost: Available in a free tier; paid plans start at about $19/month
Descript – Ideal for Editing Video Like it’s a Doc
Best for: Creators looking for greater autonomy without leaving AI behind
Features:
- From transcript to video: Edit videos by editing the transcript
- AI voiceover, transcription, and filler word remover
- Screen recording, and multitrack editing
Pros:
- User-friendly interface,
- versatile editing
Cons:
- Some learning curve required for advanced features
- Pricing: Free limited plan, paid option starts at $15/month
Veed. Best All-in-One Online Editor
Great for: Social media influencers and short-form video content creator
Features:
- AI subtitles, auto-translate, templates for social platforms
- Simple trim, text overlay and progress bars
Pros:
- Very easy for beginners, Nice UI
Cons:
- Not as “smart” as Opus Clip
Cost: Free tier, paid plans from $18 per month
6.Export and Post
When you’re satisfied with your edits, export the clips in formats that work for Instagram Reels (9:16), YouTube Shorts (9:16) or TikTok (also 9:16). Then either schedule your posts or upload them for immediate engagement.
Final Thoughts
AI video editing tools can be a real-time saver for content creators, marketers, and entrepreneurs who want to create and publish best-performing content regularly. And if you pump out tons of long-form content, be it by yourself or a content agency, AI will keep you ahead of the trends, and produce enough value for you.