What is the primary purpose of video editing?

The primary purpose of video editing is to refine and enhance raw video footage to create a cohesive and engaging final product. This involves various tasks that can include trimming clips, rearranging scenes, adjusting audio, and adding transitions or effects to improve the overall storytelling of the video. Importing footage is an initial step in the editing process, allowing the editor to work with the material, but it is not the main goal of editing itself.

The focus of video editing is on constructing a narrative or conveying a message effectively, rather than merely handling the files. While the act of importing and exporting videos is necessary within the workflow of editing, it serves more as a function to facilitate the editing process rather than defining its core purpose. The editing process also encompasses a variety of techniques, such as color correction and audio mixing, which are crucial for achieving the desired aesthetic and emotional response from viewers.