<!-- Markdown twin of https://shortyedit.com/guides/edit-talking-head-with-inserts -->
> Use inserts to explain the words while preserving the speaker’s argument and natural rhythm.
Source: https://shortyedit.com/guides/edit-talking-head-with-inserts

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# How to edit a talking-head video with useful inserts

Use inserts to explain the words while preserving the speaker’s argument and natural rhythm.

[The Shorty team](https://shortyedit.com/about#editorial-team) · Updated 15 September 2026

## Key takeaways

- Pair one supporting clip with each relevant point.
- Upload your clips to Shorty and describe the result you want.
- An insert should not suggest evidence for a claim it cannot demonstrate.
- Name the moment, say what should change and describe what you want to keep.

## Start with a clear direction

Pair one supporting clip with each relevant point. Keep the speaker visible for the key claim and conclusion unless another source is more informative.

## Put it into your edit

Upload your clips to Shorty and describe the result you want. Add a reference if it helps show the pace or visual treatment. Play the first cut, then use chat to shape the next version.

## An instruction to make your own

Use this direction for my video: Pair one supporting clip with each relevant point. Keep the speaker visible for the key claim and conclusion unless another source is more informative. An insert should not suggest evidence for a claim it cannot demonstrate.

## Check the detail that matters

An insert should not suggest evidence for a claim it cannot demonstrate.

## Keep the next change focused

Name the moment, say what should change and describe what you want to keep. For a title, supply the replacement words. For pacing, identify the shot that needs more or less time. Play the surrounding sequence after the revision to hear and see how the change fits.

## Keep the ideas coming

### Write a clear editing prompt

Describe the source footage, audience, format, story order and constraints. Tell Shorty what must remain accurate, which shot should lead and what the viewer should understand at the end. A reference video is optional; a clear written brief can supply the direction.

### Refine your edit

Shorty is an AI video editor you can revise by chat. Open an existing edit and describe the change in plain language, such as a new opening, different shot timing or corrected title text, or select an editable title or graphic in the preview and say what should change. Shorty renders a new version to compare with the previous cut.

### Find an example brief

Explore this editing workflow in Shorty.

## Questions, answered.

### How do I apply this in Shorty?

Upload your clips to Shorty and describe the result you want. Add a reference if it helps show the pace or visual treatment. Play the first cut, then use chat to shape the next version.

### What should I look for in the result?

An insert should not suggest evidence for a claim it cannot demonstrate.

## Your next video starts here.

Bring the footage. Tell us the idea. Shape the edit.

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Published by Tools Products FZ-LLC. Canonical HTML: https://shortyedit.com/guides/edit-talking-head-with-inserts
