How to get transcript on YouTube with these simple hacks

Published on 03.02.2025 by TF

If you've ever wanted to get a transcript on YouTube, you're not alone. Whether you're trying to extract text from a video for accessibility, study purposes, or content creation, YouTube offers built-in options, as well as third-party tools, to make this process easier. Plus, if you want to grow your channel faster, check out this page on how to get more subscribers on YouTube.

 

 

How to Get a YouTube Transcript on Your Mobile Phone

Using a mobile device to get a transcript on YouTube is straightforward. YouTube provides automatic captions, and with just a few steps, you can access and copy them.

  1. Open the YouTube App: Start by launching the YouTube app on your phone.
  2. Find the Video: Search for the video you need a transcript for.
  3. Tap on the Three Dots: Below the video, you’ll see an options menu. Tap on it to access more settings.
  4. Select “Captions” or “Subtitles”: If captions are available, they will be displayed on the screen. Enable them if necessary.
  5. Use the Transcript Feature:
    • Some videos have an option called “Open Transcript.” If available, click it to view the text version of the subtitles.
    • If the transcript option isn’t available, consider manually copying the displayed captions as the video plays.
  6. Copy the Transcript:
    • On Android: Press and hold on the transcript text, then select and copy.
    • On iPhone: You may need to take screenshots or use a third-party transcription app.

If the video does not have an automatic transcript, you can use external apps that convert speech into text.

 

Getting a YouTube Transcript on a Computer

Using a desktop or laptop computer gives you access to additional tools that make it even easier to get a transcript on YouTube. Follow these steps:

  1. Open YouTube in a Web Browser: Go to YouTube and sign in if necessary.
  2. Search for the Video: Find the video you want to transcribe.
  3. Click the Three Dots Below the Video: You’ll see an option for “Open Transcript” (if available).
  4. Enable the Transcript: Clicking this will bring up a text box on the right side of the video containing the transcript.
  5. Adjust the Transcript Settings:
    • If you see timestamps and want to remove them, look for the toggle option that allows you to disable timestamps.
  6. Copy the Transcript:
    • Click and drag to select all the text, then right-click and choose “Copy.”
    • You can then paste the transcript into a document for later use.
  7. Download the Transcript:
    • Some browser extensions allow you to download transcripts directly.
    • If the automatic transcript isn’t accurate enough, third-party tools can help refine the text output.

This method is one of the quickest ways to extract and save subtitles.

 

Transcribing a YouTube Video to Text With a Transcription Service

If you need a highly accurate transcript, third-party services provide professional solutions. While YouTube’s automatic captions are useful, they aren’t always precise, especially for complex content. Here’s how you can use external services to get a transcript on YouTube:

  1. Use an Online Transcription Service:
    • Websites like Rev, Otter.ai, and Temi offer AI-based or human-generated transcripts for higher accuracy.
  2. Upload or Provide a Link:
    • Some services allow you to directly upload a YouTube link.
    • Others may require downloading the video’s audio and uploading it separately.
  3. Choose Between Automated or Human Transcription:
    • AI-based transcription is faster and more affordable but may have errors.
    • Human transcription is more accurate but takes longer and costs more.
  4. Download the Final Transcript:
    • Once processed, you’ll receive a text document with the full transcript.
    • Some platforms allow exporting into multiple formats, such as Word, PDF, or SRT files.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I copy or download a YouTube video?

Downloading YouTube videos without permission violated YouTube’s Terms of Service, except when using YouTube’s official download feature. YouTube Premium allows users to download videos legally for offline viewing within the app. Some educational and Creative Commons videos can be legally downloaded. If you need to save a video for fair use, consider YouTube’s built-in download option or request permission from the creator.

How do I download a YouTube Audio?

YouTube does not officially allow audio downloads unless you use YouTube Music Premium, which lets you download songs for offline listening. If you want to extract audio legally, check if the video has a Creative Commons license or permission from the creator. Avoid third-party websites, as many violate YouTube’s policies and may pose security risks.

What is the safest YouTube downloader?

The safest way to download YouTube videos legally is through YouTube Premium. If you need to download videos for personal use, trusted open-source software like 4K Video Downloader or YT-DLP (for advanced users) is considered safer than shady third-party websites. Be cautious of sites that ask for personal data, as they may contain malware or phishing threats.