How to Split and Cut Clips in Kdenlive

This article provides a quick guide on how to cut and split video clips on the Kdenlive timeline. You will learn about the primary tool used for editing clips, the keyboard shortcuts to speed up your workflow, and how to perform precise cuts using the timeline playhead.

The Primary Tool: The Razor Tool

The primary tool used to cut or split a clip in Kdenlive is the Razor Tool.

• The Shortcut: Press the X key on your keyboard to activate the Razor Tool.
• The Icon: You can also select it from the timeline toolbar (the icon resembles a razor blade or scissors).

Once the Razor Tool is active, your mouse cursor will change. Simply click on any video or audio clip on the timeline at the exact point where you want to make a cut. To return to the normal selection mode, press S (the Selection Tool).

The Alternative Method: Cut at Playhead

If you prefer not to switch tools, you can split clips directly using the playhead (the vertical line indicating the current playback position).

1. Position the playhead at the exact frame where you want to split the clip.
2. Select the clip you wish to cut by clicking on it.
3. Use the keyboard shortcut Shift + R (or right-click the clip and select Cut Clip).

This method is often preferred by editors because it allows for frame-by-frame precision using the left and right arrow keys before making the cut.