What is an SRT File? How to create and use SRT Files

One of the most frequent types of raw closed caption file formats or subtitle formats is an SRT file, sometimes known as a SubRip (.srt) file. After a video has been produced, a raw file such as an SRT or another type of supported "closed caption file" is typically ordered as part of the post-production process. In addition to the actual video, the raw caption file can be uploaded to the site where the video will be hosted as a separate sidecar file.

Hands up. Have you watched a video online in the last 48 hours? In the last 24 hours? In the last hour? I’m guessing your hand is up. If not, what have you been doing?! No, never-mind, don't answer that!

Second question. Did you watch that video with the audio off, using your eyes to read the words on the screen instead of using your ears to listen to the sound?

Is your hand still up?

If so, it’s probable that you have observed an SRT file in use.

What is an SRT File?

Closed captions are common, but SRT files aren't. However, they're not that dissimilar. Closed captions and subtitles can be added to video content after it has been created using SRT files. You probably haven't had to think about caption file formats unless you've worked in video marketing, a video post-production team, or ran a really successful YouTube channel.

However, as video has become more popular, adding closed captions to video content, regardless of where it's hosted, has become standard practice. The growing trend of captioning video content has numerous advantages for both video creators and viewers. Consider improved viewership, accessibility, and overall satisfaction.

Are there other subtitle formats?

SRT files are not the only type of subtitle file format, but it is one of the more widely supported types. WebVTT (.VTT) is another subtitle file format. It is a newer method of subtitling that has more functionality. Another subtitle format is EBU-STL (.STL). This format is used primarily with European broadcasters for subtitling TV programmes.

Most video hosting services, including Facebook, Vimeo, YouTube, and the majority of the other big players, now support caption sidecar files. Other social media and video player platforms that have been slower to adapt are expected to catch up with the big boys soon, making it simple to add closed captions as a file extension to a video file.

Why should I use an SRT file to subtitle my video?

Up to 85% of Facebook videos are viewed without sound. So, for one, including subtitles to your video will help increase viewership. Additionally, subtitles can provide better comprehension for those who are hard of hearing or who viewing your content in a non-native language.

Besides, SRT file is of good compatibility with editing software, video converter and other tools that help add subtitle to videos.

An easy way to create custom SRT files.

Unfortunately, accurate subtitles and closed captions don’t magically appear at the bottom of every video. Someone, or some programme, has to methodically convert the audio to text, expertly time that audio to the text, and overlay this on a video.

Doing this manually is a time-consuming process. Luckily, Happy Scribe offers an easy way to create a custom SRT file automatically. Here’s how:

1. Upload your video file to Happy Scribe. No size restriction and the first 30 minutes are free.

Log in to Happy Scribe our Start your free trial.

2. Happy Scribe will auto transcribe your video. Your file will be converted from video to text in just a few minutes using our SRT subtitles creator.

3. Proofread and Edit. The SRT file generator has a very high accuracy rate, but no transcription is 100% perfect.

Proofread and edit your Happy Scribe video easily.

4. Customise your subtitle font, size, position and background.

Customise your subtitle font, size and position with Happy Scribe SRT File Generator.

5. Click on download and choose the SRT subtitle format.

There you have it! You’ve successfully generated a custom SRT file. Creating a custom SRT file is as easy as that.