Buzz
Transform any YouTube video into written text with this easy-to-follow guide
Looking to create a transcript for a specific YouTube video? Fortunately, most YouTube videos allow creators to upload accurate transcripts that can be copied and pasted. If the video lacks a transcript, you can use a free online tool to generate one. Here's how to obtain a YouTube video transcript on your iPhone, iPad, Android device, or computer.
Quick Overview
- Go to a YouTube video.
- Open the video description.
- Scroll down and tap Show transcript.
- Copy the text of the transcript.
- Paste the copied text into a different application.
Detailed Instructions
Using the Mobile App
Launch the YouTube app. This is represented by a white play button inside a red rectangle.
Search for a video. Use the search icon at the top-right corner to enter keywords or pick a video from your homepage feed.
Click on ...more. This button is located below the video, which expands the description.
Scroll and click on Show transcript. You’ll find this under the Transcript section.
- Not all videos have transcripts available.
Copy and paste the transcript. Highlight the text, tap Copy, and then open a text editing app, such as Notes, Google Docs, or Word. Paste the copied text into the app.
Modify the text (optional). Since the transcript isn't formatted, you can apply necessary formatting adjustments. You might need to add or remove lines, bold the timestamps, or change the font style.
On a Computer
Open https://www.youtube.com/ in your web browser. Any browser will work for this task.
Find a video. Use the search icon in the top-right corner to enter keywords or choose a video from your homepage feed.
Click on ...more. This button appears beneath the video, expanding the description.
Scroll down and click on Show transcript. This option is found under the Transcript heading.
- A new panel will appear to the right of the video.
- Not every video will have an available transcript.
Copy and paste the transcript. Highlight the text, click Copy, and then open a text editing app such as Google Docs or Microsoft Word to paste it.
- If you want to remove the timestamps, click ⋮ in the top-right corner of the Transcript window and select Toggle timestamps.
Modify the text (optional). As the transcript isn't formatted, feel free to apply any formatting you need. You can add or remove lines, bold the timestamps, or adjust the font style.
Using a Transcript Generator
Access the Transcript Generator tool in a web browser. Keep in mind that these are third-party websites, so avoid sharing personal information or logging into accounts.
- You can use sites like:
Copy the YouTube video link. You can find it at the top of your browser. If you're on the mobile app, tap the Share button below the video, then select Copy link.
Paste the link into the URL field. This is located at the top of the Generator page.
Click Go or a similar option. The transcript will appear shortly.
Save the transcript. You can either copy and paste the text into a text editor, or download the file. If downloading, make sure you have antivirus software to keep your computer safe.
