How to Create YouTube Shorts: Step-By-Step Guide

Short-form video content continues to dominate social media. Learn how to make YouTube Shorts to connect with more people and increase your visibility.

Thinking about becoming a YouTuber? Or maybe you already have a channel but are struggling to grow it. One of the best ways to boost your presence on YouTube is by posting Shorts. Like TikToks and Instagram Reels, Shorts are quick, entertaining videos under 60 seconds that are easy to consume.

Unlike long-form YouTube videos, which mainly reach your subscribers, Shorts have a broader reach. They can attract new viewers and help you monetize your channel. Best of all, they are quick and easy to create. How to Create YouTube Shorts. You can record, edit, and upload YouTube Shorts using the YouTube mobile app. You can also remix other creators’ Shorts or upload ready-to-post Shorts from your computer. Let’s explore each option in detail. 

Option 1: Create YouTube Shorts in the Mobile App

Step 1: Open the YouTube App

Tap the Plus icon at the bottom of the screen to start creating a new Short.

Step 2: Choose a Maximum Length**  

By default, your Short will be 15 seconds long. Tap the 15s icon in the top right corner to change the maximum length to 60 seconds.

Step 3: Utilize Recording Tools  

Expand the tool menu on the right side of the screen to access:

– Flip: Switch between front and back camera.

– Timer: Use a countdown to start recording hands-free.

– Speed: Adjust the recording speed.

– Effects: Apply various video effects.

– Green Screen: Change your background using a photo or video.

– Filters: Apply preset color filters.

– Retouch: Smooth your skin in the video.

– Lighting: Adjust exposure for dim lighting.

– Flash: Use flash when recording with the back camera.

Step 4: Record or Upload Video Clips  

Tap the red button to start recording. You can start and stop as needed, recording multiple clips. Alternatively, upload pre-recorded clips by tapping the Add button. You can mix recorded and uploaded clips.

Step 5: Add Sound 

Select a song or trending sound to accompany your video, either before or after recording. Save sounds you like while browsing other Shorts to use them later.

Step 6: Make Edits  

Use the editing tools on the right side of the screen:

– Text: Add text with various fonts, colors, and alignment options. Adjust timing to control when text appears.

– Trim: Adjust the duration of each clip.

– Filters: Apply color filters.

– Voiceover: Record a voiceover.

– Q&A: Add a sticker with a question for viewers. Answers appear as comments.

Step 7: Add Details and Share 

Select a thumbnail, add a caption, and include hashtags. Choose your video’s visibility, audience, and permissions, then tap Upload Short to make it live.

Option 2: Remix Other YouTube Shorts

Use the Remix feature to engage with other creators by incorporating their Shorts into your own. Respond, react, or add to their content.

Step 1: Find a Short to Remix 

Tap the Remix button on the right side of the screen if the creator allows it.

Step 2: Choose Your Remix Option 

– Collab: Record your clip alongside the original video.

– Green Screen: Use the original video as your background.

– Cut This Video: Record your clips to follow the original.

Step 3: Record and Edit

Record your portion and follow steps 6 and 7 from Option 1 to edit and upload your remixed Short.

Option 3: Upload a YouTube Short from Your Computer

If you prefer using computer software for editing, you can upload Shorts directly from your desktop.

Step 1: Go to YouTube.com  

In the top right corner, click Create > Upload video.

Step 2: Upload Your Video  

Drag and drop your video or click Select Files. Ensure it’s a vertical video under 60 seconds for it to be recognized as a Short.

Step 3: Fill in Details 

Complete the required information in the Details section. Your Title will appear as the caption.

Step 4: Set Visibility and Publish  

Choose your video’s visibility settings and click Publish. .