What is non-linear editing (NLE)?

Learn the basics of non-linear editing and how it can help simplify video production.

Non-linear editing (NLE) is an editing process that enables the editor to make changes to a video or audio project without regard to the linear timeline. In other words, you can work on whichever clip you want in any order. It doesn’t matter if it lands in the beginning, middle, or end of the project.

Benefits of non-linear video editing.

It might seem more difficult to edit videos randomly, but non-linear video editing provides several benefits to video makers.

First — it doesn’t modify the original content. Because non-linear editing is accomplished with a video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, you can upload all the clips at once and drag and drop them to the proper locations in the timeline. If you don’t like where something ends up, you can easily move it without altering the rest of the project. You can even edit videos on the go right from your mobile device.

Second — non-linear editing gives creators much more freedom throughout the editing process. You can start working wherever you like. If you don’t have a plan in place beforehand, that’s okay. Non-linear editing lets you use a trial-and-error method. Make a bad edit? Just undo the changes and try again. This method allows for much more creativity than linear editing.

How to use non-linear editing.

The best way to reap the benefits of non-linear editing is to use video editing software like Premiere Pro. That will allow you to upload all your clips at once, then drag and drop them as you see fit. Even if you don’t like the changes you made, you can undo them and try again until your video looks exactly like you imagined.

Discover more video tips that will take your editing skills to the next level. Then explore all the tools Premiere Pro offers to help you create, organize and edit videos like the pros.