What Is Timecode?

Direct definition

Timecode is a numeric label for a position in media, usually hours:minutes:seconds plus frames or milliseconds. Transcripts and subtitle files both use timecode, but they may use different precision.

The sections below explain how timecode is used in transcription and subtitle work, what people often mix up, and which VideoText workflow applies when the next step is a file or review pass.

Key takeaways

• SRT uses HH:MM:SS,mmm. WebVTT typically uses HH:MM:SS.mmm.
• Broadcast tools often use HH:MM:SS:FF with a stated frame rate.
• Never mix drop-frame and non-drop-frame labels on the same project without converting.

How timecode is used in transcripts

A timestamped transcript might mark every speaker change or every 30 seconds. That is a navigation aid, not a broadcast caption track.

Related terms

• timestamp
• SMPTE timecode
• frame rate
• SRT file
• All glossary terms

Sources

1. Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers: SMPTE ST 12-1 timecode family (overview via SMPTE)