Edit Video by Editing Text in Descript: A Beginner's Guide

Descript turns video into a document: delete words to cut footage, remove filler words, clean up audio and add captions. Step by step, plus free plan limits.

In Descript you edit video like a document: it transcribes automatically, and when you delete a sentence the matching footage is cut. It's ideal for podcasts, talking-head videos and tutorials.

Step by step

Create a New Project (Video), name it and drag in your file.
Pick the language so Descript can transcribe; you can add speaker names.
Highlight extra sentences in the transcript and press Delete — the footage is cut. Cut and paste text to reorder.
Use filler word removal (um, uh…) and Shorten word gaps to tighten pauses; turn on Studio Sound to reduce noise.
Add Captions (the T icon), pick a style, then use Publish to post or export video and subtitle files.

Tips for cleaner captions

After big deletions, watch the cuts to avoid jumpy edits.
Naming speakers makes it quick to remove one person's section.
Better transcripts mean cleaner cuts — record clear audio from the start.
For heavy color or effects work, export the timeline to another editor.

How much is free

The free plan includes 60 media minutes a month and exports 720p with a watermark. Paid plans start around $16–24/month depending on yearly or monthly billing.

Steps follow the official help page, checked October 30, 2026; menus may change with updates.