Glossary · Updated
What is closed captions?
Short answer
Closed captions are a text track delivered separately from the video that viewers can switch on or off. They transcribe speech and often describe important sounds. Subtitles usually translate or transcribe dialogue only. Platforms and players display closed captions in their own style.
How is closed captions used in editing?
Closed captions are standard for accessibility on longer videos. For short social clips, creators often burn captions in as well.
What mistakes do people make?
- Assuming auto captions are accurate
- Not uploading a file at all
- Forgetting sound descriptions where needed
Do skills create closed caption files?
No. Explainer burns captions into the picture. Provide a separate transcript or subtitle file if you need closed captions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference from subtitles?
Closed captions can include non-speech sounds.
Are they required?
Rules differ by place and use.
What file formats exist?
Common caption and subtitle formats include SRT and VTT, and platforms list which files they accept in their help pages.
Can viewers style them?
Often, in the player.
Skills mentioned on this page
Explainer
Turns a talking clip into a clear lesson with gold word-by-word captions and points on screen.
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