As video editors we are always looking at different ways to improve our speed and efficiency. Whether it’s keyboard shortcuts, plug-ins, or even video templates, utilizing these will help you crank through edits and deliver high quality final videos. So in this post I’ll be outlining the top 3 ways you can level up your game as a video editor.
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Keyboard Shortcuts, Keyboard Shortcuts, Keyboard Shortcuts
If you’ve been video editing for some time, you know the importance of keyboard shortcuts. Now, while others say that you should memorize every single shortcut there is in the software, I recommend a different approach.
While you are video editing, I would take notes of the specific tasks and functions you do most as a video editor. The reality is, is that not all video editors are the same. The most frequent tools you use as a video editor might be completely different than the tools I use most often. This is why I believe that you need to take a personalized approach when it comes to keyboard shortcuts.
So with that being said, just take note of the things you do most often as a video editor. Then find the keyboard shortcut for that task. Or better yet, create a custom keyboard shortcut that works best for you. One of the great things about Adobe Premiere Pro is that you can customize the layout for keyboard shortcuts. Depending on your desk setup or if you’re right handed or left handed, you can adjust the shortcut settings to fit your workflow best.
If you’re curious on the top Premiere Pro keyboard shortcuts I use all the time as a video editor, I’ve linked a video below that you can check out to get some ideas.
Text Animator & Transitions Extension
One of the most tedious tasks of video editing is animating text or creating transitions from scratch. I would recommend looking into getting a free plugin or extension for Premiere Pro that has a few built in text animators and transitions. This can help save time, while also maintaining high quality videos.
Here are some of my favorite free options below:
My favorite from these options is Mister Horse’s Premiere Composer. I think their free pack offers the most within it. If you want to see what’s in the pack, check out my video below that reviews the pack.
If you have some money to spend and want to level up your video editing tools, you could also look into purchasing a stock video and audio subscription that also includes a Premiere Pro extension. Motion Array is a solid option as it has a built in plug-in for Premiere Pro, making it very easy to download assets directly into your video project.
You can also check out my post on the best free and paid subscriptions by clicking HERE
The Toolbar Is Your Friend
Lastly, I would recommend learning every single tool in the toolbar in and out. A lot of video editors only use a hand full of the different tools. But knowing how all the tools work can be very advantageous in certain editing situations.
To learn all of the Premiere Pro tools, you can read Adobe’s article by clicking HERE or you can check out my video below where I cover every tool.
I hope these tips were helpful. If you have any questions feel free to leave them down below in the comments section. Thanks so much for reading and happy video editing!
John Vlach 
Thanks vwery much for taking the time to publish this post and share your insights. It is greatly appreciated! Here are my three takeaways from this article.
1. Take note of the tasks and functions you do most often as a video editor and make a list of the specific tasks you need to perform for each task.
2. Use a personalized approach to keyboard shortcuts, taking into account the things you do most often.
3. Learn all of the Premiere Pro tools and how to use them in order to get the most out of your video editing.
Patrice
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