How to Edit and Trim a TikTok Video

Upload a video, open TikTok's timeline editor, and shorten the beginning or end before posting.

⚡Short answer

Tap Add post +, upload a video, tap Edit, select the clip in the timeline, and drag either white edge inward to trim it.

Before you start

Keep an original copy of the video on your device. Trimming in TikTok changes the version prepared for the post, and other editing tools can affect sound, speed, framing, and clip order.

Follow the steps

  1. Open TikTok's upload screen

    Tap Add post +, then tap the gallery thumbnail to upload an existing video.

    TikTok creation screen with the gallery thumbnail.
    Open the upload picker. · Tap to enlarge
  2. Choose a video

    Open Videos, select the clip you want to edit, then tap Next.

    TikTok gallery Videos tab with a video selected.
    Choose a video and tap Next. · Tap to enlarge
  3. Open the editing tools

    On the preview screen, tap Edit on the right to open the timeline editor.

    TikTok video preview with the Edit tool on the right.
    Tap Edit to open the timeline. · Tap to enlarge
  4. Select the clip in the timeline

    Tap the video clip in the timeline. TikTok shows the clip handles and tools such as Split, Replace, Delete, Speed, and Crop.

    TikTok timeline editor with a selected video clip and editing tools.
    Select the clip in the timeline. · Tap to enlarge
  5. Trim the beginning or end

    Drag the white handle at either end of the clip inward. Preview the result and check the updated duration, then tap the arrow at the top right.

    TikTok timeline after the clip edge was moved and the duration shortened.
    Drag a clip edge to trim the video. · Tap to enlarge
  6. Review before posting

    Add a description, cover, audience, and privacy settings. Tap Post only when you are ready, or go back to discard the edit.

    TikTok post screen with description, cover, privacy settings, Drafts, and Post.
    Review the edited video before posting. · Tap to enlarge

A couple of useful details

Can I trim both ends of a TikTok video?

Yes. Select the clip and drag the left or right timeline handle inward to shorten the beginning or end.

Can I cut a section from the middle?

Use Split at the start and end of the unwanted section, select that segment, then use Delete.

Can I undo a trim?

Use the editor's undo control when available, or move the clip handle back before leaving the editor.

Does editing publish the video?

No. Editing prepares the video. It is published only after you reach the final screen and confirm Post.

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