Training Video Subtitles : A Guide

If you've ever watched a training video without subtitles, you know how easy it is to lose track of what's being said.

Adding subtitles can solve these problems.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to create subtitles manually, and how to generate them automatically using online tools.

Why Add Subtitles to Your Training Video?

Adding subtitles to your training videos can greatly improve the learning experience for your audience :

• Subtitles make it easier for your learners to revisit specific points and absorb information at their own pace. When viewers can read along while listening, they are more likely to understand and remember the content.
• Subtitles also make your videos accessible to everyone. Not all learners have the same abilities or language skills. Subtitles ensure that viewers with hearing impairments or those who are not fluent in the language can fully understand your content.
• If your training videos are shared globally, adding subtitles in multiple languages can expand your reach. Learners can choose their preferred language, which makes the content easier to understand and more engaging.
• Subtitles are also useful when learners are in situations where playing audio is not convenient. Many people watch training videos during breaks or commutes, where they might not want to disturb others.

How to Create Subtitles Manually for Your Training Video

Creating subtitles manually can take time, but it ensures that your training video is accurate and meets your specific needs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create subtitles manually for your training video:

1. Prepare Your Tools:

To start, you need a video player, a text editor, and preferably a subtitling software like Aegisub or Subtitle Edit. These tools help you create and sync your subtitles with the video more efficiently. Make sure to have your video file ready and accessible.

2. Play the Video and Transcribe the Content:

Start by playing your video and writing down every spoken word. This is called transcription. You can use a simple text editor like Notepad or Word to type out what is being said in the video. It is important to be as accurate as possible during this step, capturing not only the words but also important pauses, background sounds, or speaker changes.

3. Segment the Subtitles:

Once you have the transcription, you need to divide it into smaller, readable segments or subtitle lines. Each segment should ideally be no longer than two lines of text, and it should match the pace of the spoken dialogue. This ensures that the subtitles are easy to read and follow without overwhelming the viewer.

4. Timecode the Subtitles:

Next, you need to synchronize the subtitles with the video by adding timecodes. Timecodes indicate when each subtitle should appear and disappear on the screen. Using subtitling software, you can set the start and end times for each segment to ensure they match the spoken words precisely. This step is crucial for making sure that the subtitles align perfectly with the audio.

5. Review and Edit:

After adding the timecodes, watch the video with the subtitles to check for any errors. Make sure the text is synchronized correctly, easy to read, and free of typos or grammatical mistakes. Pay attention to the timing—subtitles should stay on the screen long enough for viewers to read them comfortably.

6. Format the Subtitles:

Formatting includes adjusting the font size, color, and position of the subtitles. This step helps improve readability and ensures that the subtitles do not obstruct important visual elements in the video. Most subtitling software allows you to customize these settings based on your preferences or brand guidelines

7. Save and Export:

Once you are satisfied with your subtitles, save them in a suitable format like SRT or VTT. These formats are widely supported by most video players and platforms. You can then add the subtitle file to your video using a video editing tool or directly upload it along with your video to platforms like YouTube or Vimeo.

Generating Subtitles Automatically: Using Online Tools

If you want to save time, generating subtitles automatically is a great option. Here’s how to create subtitles automatically for your training videos using online tools like Checksub:

1. Upload Your Video:

Start by uploading your video to an automatic subtitling platform like Checksub. First, log in to the platform. If you don't have an account, you can create one quickly. Once logged in, upload your video file by dragging and dropping it or selecting it from your device.

After uploading, the platform will automatically transcribe the audio in your video. This process only takes a few minutes, depending on the length of your video. The AI-powered tool will generate a subtitle file that you can use right away.

2. Edit and Optimize the Subtitles:

Even though automatic transcription is fast, it's important to review the subtitles for accuracy. Click on the generated subtitles to access the subtitle editor. Here, you can make adjustments to ensure that the text aligns with the spoken words and correct any mistakes made during the transcription. You can also adjust timing to make sure the subtitles are displayed at the right moments.

Platforms like Checksub also allow you to customize the appearance of your subtitles. You can change the font, size, color, and even the position on the screen. This helps make your subtitles consistent with your brand or more readable for your audience.

3. Export the Subtitled Video:

Once you are happy with the subtitles, export the video. You can either download the subtitle file (in formats like SRT or VTT) to use with your video or export the video with the subtitles burned in. Checksub allows you to export the video in various formats, such as MP4 or MOV, making it easy to share across different platforms.

Want to make your training videos accessible and engaging? Try Checksub for free.