If you’re want to know how to create YouTube Shorts from existing video, this guide is for you. With the rising popularity of vertical short-form content on every platform, repurposing your long-form videos into Shorts is one of the smartest ways to grow your channel, increase watch time, and reach new audiences without starting from scratch.
I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know – from what Shorts are, why they matter, how to pick the right clips, and how to edit and upload them the right way. Whether you’re a vlogger, gamer, educator, or business owner, this is your roadmap to tapping into the YouTube Shorts traffic wave.
Why You Should Be Creating YouTube Shorts
YouTube Shorts are YouTube’s answer to TikTok and Instagram Reels. They’re vertical videos usually up to 60 seconds long, designed for mobile-first viewing. And they’re getting massive reach right now. TikTok and YouTube allow more than 60 seconds shorts also.
Here’s why you should start creating Shorts from your existing content:
- Increased exposure: YouTube is pushing Shorts hard in search, feed, and suggestions.
- Faster growth: Channels using Shorts often see faster subscriber growth.
- Repurposing magic: You already have the content – now squeeze more value out of it.
- Hook new viewers: Shorts are a great way to introduce people to your longer videos.
Think of Shorts like a movie trailer. You give viewers a taste, and if they like it, they’ll come watch the full film – your main content.
How To Create YouTube Shorts From Existing Video (Step-By-Step)
Now let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how I do this – and how you can too. This process works whether your original video is a 10-minute tutorial, a livestream, or a gameplay video.
Step 1: Identify the Best Clip from the Original Video
Not every part of your video will make a good Short. You want to find a moment that’s punchy, engaging, and valuable within 60 seconds.
Here are a few things I look for:
- A funny or surprising moment
- A powerful quote or lesson
- A quick tutorial or tip
- A dramatic highlight (for gamers)
- A wow moment with emotion
Tip: Check your YouTube Analytics to see where audience retention spikes. That’s gold.
Step 2: Choose the Right Editing Tool for Shorts
Once you’ve picked the clip, it’s time to edit it into a Short. You can use free or paid tools to do this:
- CapCut (mobile-friendly and packed with features)
- InShot
- Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro (for advanced users)
- DaVinci Resolve (free, professional-level software)
I personally love CapCut for quick edits, captions, and transitions.
Step 3: Format It Vertically (9:16 Aspect Ratio)
YouTube Shorts need to be vertical. If your original video is horizontal, you’ll have to crop, zoom, or reposition the frame to make it fit.
You can:
- Zoom in on your subject (but don’t lose quality)
- Add blurred background to fill space
- Reframe the video for mobile viewing
Some editors like CapCut and InShot offer a one-click vertical crop, which helps a lot.
Step 4: Add Text, Captions & Music (Optional but Effective)
People scroll fast. You need to grab their attention in the first 2 seconds.
I like to add:
- Bold, catchy text at the top to hook viewers
- Captions so it works even without sound
- Background music or sound effects (use YouTube’s free library or trending sounds)
Adding these elements boosts engagement and makes your Short more professional.
Step 5: Upload As a Short With the Right Settings
Now it’s time to upload your Short correctly. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Use a compelling title (keep it under 100 characters)
- Add #Shorts in the title or description, although it is not necessary now
- Choose a strong thumbnail or let YouTube pick the best frame. You can choose thumbnail for short on mobile by dragging video left and right. It will not work on desktop. You have to upload video from mobile to choose thumbnail.
- Include relevant tags and a strong description
- Add a link to the full video if it exists
This makes your Short not just a standalone clip, but a gateway to your full content.
Best Practices When You Create YouTube Shorts From Existing Video
I’m going to share some practical tips that I’ve learned from creating and watching hundreds of Shorts.
Make It Self-Contained
Your Short should make sense without watching the full video. It should stand on its own.
Start Strong, End Fast
Grab attention in the first 1–2 seconds and wrap it up by 55 seconds.
Stay On Topic
Don’t cram too much into one Short. Focus on one idea, one moment, one emotion.
Consistency Wins
Try to upload at least 3–4 Shorts per week. YouTube rewards regular posting.
Test & Learn
Experiment with different styles, formats, and clips. See what works. Then do more of that.
Smart Ways to Repurpose Videos Into YouTube Shorts
You might be wondering, “What kind of old content can I turn into Shorts?” Here are some creative ideas:
- Tutorials → turn step-by-step into bite-sized hacks
- Q&A videos → cut each question as a separate Short
- Livestream highlights
- Behind-the-scenes moments
- Podcast clips
- Viral moments from past videos
- Comment responses as Short replies
The possibilities are endless once you get the hang of it.
Tools I have used to Create YouTube Shorts From Existing Video
Let me share a few tools that make my life easier:
- CapCut: Amazing mobile editor for Shorts
- YT Cutter: Extract clips from YouTube videos
- SnapTik or SaveTube: Download your own videos easily
- Descript: Transcribe and edit video like a Word doc
These tools save me hours and help me produce high-quality content fast.
Does Creating YouTube Shorts Really Help Your Channel Grow?
Yes. 100%. I’ve seen it myself and with my clients.
Shorts:
- Get you more impressions on YouTube’s mobile feed
- Help you gain subscribers from a wider audience
- Keep your channel active and visible
- Drive traffic to your long-form videos
In fact, some channels go from zero to 100K subscribers just by using Shorts the smart way.
Final Thoughts
Just take what you’ve already created, find the best moments, and shape them into snack-sized content. YouTube Shorts are an opportunity to revive your old content, reach more people, and grow faster with less effort. But you’ve got to be consistent, creative, and strategic. Start with one Short today from an older video you already love (video with more views). Then do another tomorrow. You’ll be amazed at what happens.
What About You?
- Have you tried turning your videos into Shorts yet?
- What kind of clips do you think will work best from your content?
- Which editing tools do you like using the most?
Let me know in the comments or shoot me a message – I’d love to hear your experiences!