How to Optimize a Video for YouTube Shorts (in 5 Easy Steps!)

Over the past couple of years, YouTube Shorts has become the dedicated space for short, engaging vertical videos (under 60 seconds) designed for creators to easily produce content using their mobile devices. Think of it as YouTube's answer to the short-form video trend, seamlessly integrated within the familiar YouTube platform.

If you're aiming to make your videos shine on YouTube Shorts, a few adjustments are necessary. Wondering how to effortlessly tailor your existing videos for this specific format? You've come to the right place — we'll guide you through the process!

How to Optimize a Video for YouTube Shorts (in 5 Easy Steps!)

If you're not a seasoned video editing expert (and let's be real, many of us aren't), the thought of optimizing videos for YouTube Shorts might seem technically challenging. And we know you want to avoid spending unnecessary time (and money) on complex editing software.

That's precisely why Zubtitle was developed — to provide the quickest and easiest way to adapt your videos for YouTube Shorts (and every other social media platform). The most crucial modifications for your YouTube Shorts involve ensuring the video is correctly resized and cropped for optimal viewing in the vertical format.

Fortunately, our free and user-friendly editing tool allows you to resize and crop your video with just a few clicks. Plus, you can easily add subtitles, engaging progress bars, and much more, ensuring your video is perfectly tailored for YouTube Shorts.

Simply follow the step-by-step guide below to get started!

Step 1: Access Your Zubtitle Account

If you're already a Zubtitle user, simply log in. If you're new, you can easily create a free account to begin.

Step 2: Upload Your Video Content

Locate the prominent yellow "Add New Video" button, typically found on the right side of your screen, and click it to upload your video.

Step 3: Choose the “Resize” Option

Within the grey menu bar on the right-hand side of the screen, scroll down until you find and select the “Resize” option.

Step 4: Adjust Your Video Dimensions

In the Resize menu, you’ll see four different aspect ratio options: 1:1, 9:16, 4:5, and 16:9. For YouTube Shorts, simply select 9:16 (vertical), and you’ll be ready for the final step!

Step 5: Fine-Tune Your Crop (If Needed)

If further cropping adjustments are required, you can easily do so using the Zoom slider. Navigate to the "Canvas" option, also located in the right-hand menu. Refer to the GIF below for a visual guide on how this works! Once you’ve achieved your desired crop, your video is ready to be rendered. Simply click the Download symbol to render your new video and save it to your computer or device.

Ready to Optimize Your Videos for YouTube Shorts (in 5 Simple Steps)?

Sign up for a free Zubtitle account today to get started! Our free Bootstrapper plan allows you to create two videos per month. For the ability to create up to 10 videos per month (and remove the Zubtitle watermark), be sure to check out our Guru plan.