Best Practices for Subtitle Formatting and Timing

1. Keep Subtitles Short and Simple

• Limit each subtitle line to 32-40 characters for easy reading.
• Use simple language and avoid complex sentences.
• Break long sentences into multiple subtitle lines.

2. Time Subtitles Accurately

• Display subtitles in sync with the spoken words.
• Each subtitle should appear for 1–6 seconds, depending on length.
• Avoid overlapping subtitles or displaying too many at once.

3. Use Proper Formatting

• Use standard subtitle formats like SRT or VTT for compatibility.
• Keep font size large enough for mobile and desktop viewers.
• Use white or yellow text with a dark outline for readability.

4. Maintain Good Positioning

• Place subtitles at the bottom center of the video.
• Avoid covering important visuals or speaker faces.

5. Check Grammar and Spelling

• Proofread your subtitles for typos and grammatical errors.
• Use proper punctuation and capitalization.

6. Test on Multiple Devices

• Preview your subtitles on both desktop and mobile screens.
• Ensure readability and correct timing across devices.

Why Good Subtitle Formatting Matters

Properly formatted subtitles improve accessibility for all viewers, help your videos rank better on search engines, and create a more professional impression. Investing a little time in formatting pays off with a better viewer experience and wider reach.