How to Create an SRT File (SubRip Subtitle)

An SRT (SubRip Subtitle) file is one of the most common formats for subtitle/caption files. It allows you to display captions or subtitles along with video playback. The format is simple and plain text, making it easy to create and edit.

Here’s how you can create an SRT file:

1. Using a Text Editor:1.1. Open any text editor of your choice (e.g., Notepad on Windows, TextEdit on macOS, or nano/vim on Linux).

   1
00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:05,000
This is the first subtitle line.

   2
00:00:05,001 --> 00:00:10,000
This is the second subtitle line.

   3
00:00:10,001 --> 00:00:15,000
This is the third subtitle line.

   • The number at the beginning of each block indicates the subtitle sequence. It starts from 1 and increases incrementally.
   • The timestamps format is hours:minutes:seconds,milliseconds. The --> indicates the duration for which the subtitle will be shown.
   • After the timestamps, you write the actual subtitle text. It can span multiple lines.

   1.3. Save the file with an .srt extension. For example: mysubtitles.srt.

2. Using Subtitle Creation Software:There are many tools available that offer a more user-friendly approach to creating subtitles. Some popular options include:
   • Aegisub: A free, cross-platform open-source tool dedicated to creating and modifying subtitles.
   • Subtitle Edit: Another free, open-source editor for video subtitles.
   • VLC Media Player: Yes, VLC can also be used to create and sync subtitles!
3. Tips for Creating Good Subtitles:
   • Ensure that each line of the subtitle has a reasonable length, so viewers can read it in time.
   • Try to match the dialogue’s natural breaks when dividing the subtitle into lines.
   • Check for spelling and grammar errors.
   • Ensure that the timing of your subtitles matches the dialogue. If you’re using a subtitle editor, you can usually play the video alongside to match the timing accurately.

After creating your SRT file, you can use it alongside video players that support external subtitle files or even integrate it into video processing tools if you wish to hardcode the subtitles into the video.