It is said the editing we do these days is non linear type of editing. What does it mean and how does it differs from linear editing?

Non-linear editing is a non-destructive editing process. which can be explained as follows: Linear video editing, clips are copied from one video tape to another, using two tape VCRs. The disadvantage of this method is that it is not possible to insert or delete scenes from the new tape without re-copying all the subsequent scenes, used with analogue video tapes. Non-linear video editing is achieved by loading the video material into a computer from analogue or digital tape. The editing process creates a new 'tape' by storing all the commands entered by the operator. This method allows the operator to cut, copy and paste scenes in any order and make any changes desired. At the completion of the editing process the computer can then build a new file by applying the commands to the original digital image stored on the disk. The original digital image on the disk is unchanged. The new video file can then be outputted to a video tape, attached to an email or posted to the web. read less

Non linear editing is non-destructive way to edit the videos, which is done on computers. linear editing was done in earlier times when editors used to cut n join the rolls to edit out the unwanted portion of the video. But now everything is done on computers and thus there is no loss of video content as we can re-use the video file for as many times as we can. read less

Hi Mr. Mayank, Greetings from Anigra training Academy. Linear editing is not frequently used nowadays because of non linear editing gives more flexibility and accuracy for editing the footages digitally at any point of time. The main software for these are Premiere Pro, Media composer, Final Cut pro, Sony vegas, Power director etc. read less