What is an SRT file?

In short: A plain-text caption file that lists each line of speech with its start and end time.

SRT (SubRip subtitle) is the most widely supported caption format. Each entry has a number, a time range like 00:00:01,000 --> 00:00:03,500, and the text shown during that range.

You can upload an SRT file to YouTube as closed captions, import it into most video editors, or translate it to add captions in other languages. Most auto-caption and transcription tools can export one.

Example

Here is a two-cue SRT file for the start of a Short. Each cue is a number, a time range with a comma before the milliseconds, the caption text, and then a blank line before the next cue. Save it as plain UTF-8 text with a .srt extension, and the second cue starts exactly where the first one ends.

1
00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:02,400
This one setting fixed my audio.

2
00:00:02,400 --> 00:00:05,100
Here's where to find it.

Tips for creators

• Save the file as plain UTF-8 text. YouTube supports only basic SRT files and ignores style markup, so colors and fonts belong in burned-in captions instead.
• Keep the SRT time format, with a comma before the milliseconds as in 00:00:02,400. WebVTT files use a period there, so don't mix the two styles in one file.
• Proofread names and numbers in the SRT before you upload or translate it. Every translated version copies the mistakes of the original file.

Common questions

What is the difference between SRT and VTT?

Both are plain-text caption files built from timed cues. YouTube lists SRT as a basic format that only needs timing information, and WebVTT as an advanced format that gives you more control over styling and positioning. For plain captions on YouTube, SRT is the simpler choice.

Which caption formats does YouTube accept besides SRT?

YouTube lists basic formats such as SubViewer (.sbv) and LRC, advanced formats such as WebVTT (.vtt), TTML and SAMI, and broadcast formats such as Scenarist (.scc) and EBU-STL. Basic files carry timing only, with no style information.

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