Simplify your editing process with templates and systems

Nordic-inspired calm editing workflow

I used to make videos that took ages to edit.

First filming from different angles, then cutting everything into tiny pieces with no clip longer than 5 seconds.

A 15-minute video meant juggling 180 separate clips! Then I'd spend hours adding subtitles on top of that.

I simplified my process by switching from silent videos to talking vlogs, which are not only more fun to create but take significantly less time to edit.

Best of all, these simpler videos actually provide more value to viewers.

Preparation

• Create a dedicated folder structure for each project

• Rename all raw files with clear, consistent naming system

• Import footage into your editing software before you begin editing

• Take a few minutes to speed watch your raw footage before starting

• Note the best sections to use and mark your favorite takes

Setup Templates

• Create a project template with your standard settings

• Save intro and outro sequences for reuse

• Build a collection of transition styles you like

• Make a simple lower-third text template

• Save your color grading presets

• Create audio normalization presets

• Set up keyboard shortcuts for your most common tasks

Streamlined Editing Process

• First pass: rough assembly with only your best clips

• Second pass: refine structure and flow

• Third pass: add b-roll (supplementary footage that adds visual interest, context, or illustrates what's being discussed in a video), graphics, and effects

• Apply the same editing pattern to every video

• Use standard music tracks across multiple videos (I use EpidemicSound for music)

• Keep a consistent visual style across all content

Minimalist Approach

• If something doesn't add value, remove it

• Aim for clarity over complexity

• Use simple cuts more often than fancy transitions

• Don't over edit

• Choose quality over quantity in effects and graphics

• Use silence and pauses for impact

• Sometimes "less is more"

Audio Workflow

• Remove background noise and filler words (e.g. with Descript you can do this automatically)

• Use simple, consistent background music (if any)

• Create a standard sound profile for your channel (I usually use calm piano music)

Export and Delivery

• Create a checklist for final review before publishing

• Save final project files in organized archive

Maintenance

• Review your workflow occasionally, can you simplify it?

• Remove any steps that aren't necessary

• Update templates with improvements

• Schedule regular time to clean up project files and media

Time Management

• Set a timer for editing sessions to prevent perfectionism

• Take regular breaks to maintain focus and perspective

• Decide in advance how long you'll spend on each video

• Finish editing one video completely before starting another

• If you're stuck on a section for too long, move on and return later