What's the best way to sync audio and video manually in a timeline?

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What's the best way to sync audio and video manually in a timeline?

Asked on Dec 27, 2025

Answer

To manually sync audio and video in a timeline, you can use visual and audio cues to align the tracks accurately. This method is applicable in most editing software like Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, or Final Cut Pro, where you can visually match waveforms or use a clapperboard as a reference.

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    1. Import both the video and audio files into your editing software.
    2. Drag the video clip onto the timeline and place the audio file on a separate audio track.
    3. Zoom into the timeline to see the audio waveforms clearly.
    4. Identify a distinct audio spike (like a clap) in both the video and audio tracks.
    5. Align the audio spike from the external audio track with the spike in the video track.
    6. Fine-tune the alignment by playing back the synced section and adjusting as needed.
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Additional Comment:

Use markers to help keep track of sync points.
If available, use a clapperboard at the start of the recording to create a clear sync point.
Once synced, consider linking or grouping the audio and video clips to maintain sync during edits.
Check sync at multiple points in the timeline to ensure consistency.

✅ Answered with Video Editing best practices.

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What's the best way to sync audio and video manually in a timeline?

Asked on Dec 27, 2025

Answer

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