Using Audacity-The Basics

Audacity is a free, audio editor that allows you to record, import, edit and mix audio files. The information below covers the basics of Audacity. For information on more advanced use of the software, visit Audacity: Manuals and Documentation.

Reminder: If you are using music in a project or website, it's important to make sure you aren't violating any copyrights.

Importing Audio Files

To import audio, go to File --> Import --> Audio and select the audio file you want to import. Some of the file types that can be imported into Audacity are WAV, AIFF, MP3 and WMA.

Recording Audio

1. To record and replay audio, use the control buttons at the top of the screen.

2. If you try to record and receive an error message like the one below, make sure your microphone is connected. If that doesn't work, try closing and restarting Audacity with the microphone connected.

3. If you record in stereo, you will see two input channels for each track you record.

4. It is also possible to overlay multiple tracks of audio. This is useful if you want your track to have some sort of background noise, such as music or sound effects.

5. Editing audio is easy. If you want to delete part of your recording, highlight and click on the Delete button on your keyboard.

6. You can also modify your audio by clicking on Effect on the menu at the top of the screen. Some popular effects include fading in or out, noise removal, amplifying and normalizing.

Saving Audio Files

1. If you only plan to play your audio in Audacity, you can go to File --> Save As, which will create an Audacity file. But, if you are going to want to include the audio in a project or play on a device, you will need to save it as an audio file. To do this, go to File --> Export.

2. When the Export File dialogue box opens, you will want to give your file a name and choose the file type. WAV is a common audio file type. Other file types include MP3 and WMA.

3. You may choose to enter information about your audio file, but it isn't necessary. Click on OK to finish saving your file.