In this guide I will show you how to create a project in Shotcut. It assumes you have the program installed on your computer. If you need help with installing the software, follow my guide, How to Install Shotcut on Windows 10 or you can head over to the Shotcut website.

Shotcut is an open source video editor that is free to download and use. It is a powerful video editing program that is growing in popularity and among the best free video editors available. It is especially good for beginners and has a simple to learn and quick to understand interface.

Step 1: Open Shotcut

Open the Shotcut software and you will be presented with the new project screen.

Step 2: New Project Window

Locate the New Project window which should be in the center of the screen. If it is not, click on File > New. The New Project Window will now appear.

Step 3: Projects Folder

Select the Projects Folder button, it opens a navigation window.

Step 4: Set the Default Projects Location

Browse to the location you want to save your Shotcut projects and click Select Location. Most people will want to leave this in the default location; the Videos folder. So if you are unsure, do not change it.

It will take you back to the New Project Window.

Step 5: Name the Project

Every Project needs a name. In the Project Name box, type the name of your project. This can be changed if you want to rename it later on.

Step 6: Video Mode

Select the video mode you would like to use by clicking the Video Mode button. You can choose from a range of predefined values, or create your own custom video modes.

If you are just starting out, leave this as automatic. By default, automatic sets the values equal to the first video clip you drag into the project. So it will automatically fit the camera / recording equipment you are using.

If you want to select a value yourself, I recommend HD 1080p 25 FPS (frames per second), this is a great resolution and frame rate to start with and you can change the video mode at any time, if required.

Step 7: Create a Project in Shotcut

Click the Start button and your project will be created. Its a blank project and you still have a lot of work to do, but you are now one step closer to creating and editing your first video.