Audacity 4 manual

Getting started

Never opened Audacity before? Follow these eight steps in order and you'll have recorded, edited and exported something by the end.

  • 9 pages
  • 8 steps
  • About twenty minutes
Coming from Audacity 3? Skip the tutorial: the transition guide maps what moved, what changed and how to make Audacity 4 feel like home.
  1. Install Audacity Download Audacity for Windows, macOS, or Linux and run the installer.
  2. Connect your microphone USB, 3.5mm, or XLR: set up the right input so Audacity hears you.
  3. Make your first recording Press record, check the level, and stop. Listen back to confirm the take.
  4. Basic audio editing Select a stretch of audio, then cut, copy, trim or silence it, and undo anything you get wrong.
  5. Apply your first effect Add a compressor or a touch of EQ as a realtime effect on a track.
  6. Save your project Keep the editable .aup4 project file or save to the cloud for backup.
  7. Export your audio Mix down to MP3, WAV, FLAC, or any format you need to share.
  8. Where to go next Dive into the manual, browse the how-to guides, or join the community.