10 Tips to Speed Up Editing in AVS Video EditorEditing video can be time-consuming, but with the right techniques you can dramatically reduce the time it takes to produce polished results. The following 10 tips focus on getting faster in AVS Video Editor without sacrificing quality — from project setup and keyboard shortcuts to workflow organization and export strategies.
1. Plan before you import
Spend a few minutes outlining your video structure and shot order before you open AVS. Create a simple storyboard or bullet-point script: intro, main points, B-roll, transitions, and outro. Knowing what you need to import reduces clutter and prevents time wasted trimming irrelevant footage.
2. Use a consistent folder structure
Organize your media on disk with a predictable folder layout. Example:
- ProjectName/
- Footage/
- Audio/
- Graphics/
- Exports/ This makes batch-importing faster and helps AVS scan fewer directories, improving project load times.
3. Transcode long or high-bitrate files
If you’re working with large or highly compressed footage (e.g., 4K H.264), transcoding to an editing-friendly intermediate codec (ProRes, DNxHD, or even a lower-bitrate MP4) can speed playback and reduce scrubbing lag. AVS may perform better with files that are easier for your CPU to decode.
4. Use proxy files for heavy projects
Create low-resolution proxy versions of your footage for editing, then relink to full-resolution files for final export. Proxies make timeline playback smooth and let you make cuts and add effects without slowdowns.
5. Master keyboard shortcuts
Learning and using AVS keyboard shortcuts saves seconds on every cut and action. Common useful shortcuts:
- Split clip: (use your configured split key)
- Cut/Copy/Paste: Ctrl+X/C/V
- Undo/Redo: Ctrl+Z / Ctrl+Y Customize and memorize shortcuts you use often to drastically reduce repetitive mouse work.
6. Use batch operations
When applying the same effect, transition, or audio level to multiple clips, use AVS’s batch features (or multi-select) instead of repeating the same steps. Batch exporting multiple small clips into a single render job saves time compared with exporting one-by-one.
7. Keep effects and layers minimal during rough cut
While assembling your rough cut, resist adding heavy color grading, stabilization, or complex effects. Lock in cuts and timing first; add resource-intensive grading and effects only after the edit is locked. This keeps playback snappy.
8. Optimize AVS settings for performance
Adjust AVS preferences to reduce preview quality during editing (lower resolution or half-size previews) and allocate more memory/threads if the software exposes those settings. Disable background auto-rendering if it interferes with responsiveness.
9. Use templates and presets
Save time by creating templates for intros, lower-thirds, or common transitions. Save export presets for your typical delivery formats (YouTube, Instagram, MP4 H.264). Reusing templates and presets eliminates repetitive configuration every project.
10. Organize and name timeline clips clearly
Use meaningful clip names and color labels where available. Mark key frames or important timestamps with markers. Clear labeling prevents hunting for the right clip during revisions and speeds collaborative work when multiple people access the project.
If you want, I can:
- Convert this into a shorter checklist or printable cheat-sheet.
- Create keyboard shortcut recommendations tailored to your OS and AVS version.
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