YouTube Timestamp Link Generator
Make a link that jumps straight to the right moment in a video, and check that your chapter list will work on YouTube.
Chapters checker
By Shah Rukh, software developer · Last updated:
How to link to a specific time on YouTube
A timestamp link is the normal video link with ?t= and a number of seconds added. For example, https://youtu.be/VIDEO_ID?t=135 starts at 2:15. The generator does the maths for you and accepts times like 2:15, 1:02:45, 135 or 2m15s.
You can also do it on YouTube itself: pause the video at the right moment, press Share, and tick Start at. On a computer, right-clicking the video and choosing Copy video URL at current time works too.
YouTube chapter rules
Chapters split a video into labelled sections on the progress bar. To make them appear, add timestamps to your description that follow these rules:
- The first timestamp must be 0:00.
- You need at least three timestamps.
- Each chapter must be at least 10 seconds long.
- Timestamps must be listed in order, earliest first.
The checker above tests your list against all four rules and shows exactly which line needs fixing.
Why chapters and timestamps help
- Viewers can jump to the part they need, which keeps them watching.
- Google Search can show “key moments” from your video, which gives you extra ways to be found.
- Sharing a timestamp link in comments, emails or chats gets people straight to the point.
ToolsCloset is not affiliated with YouTube or Google. These tools only use public information and run in your browser. We don’t download videos or audio, and we never store the links you paste.
Frequently asked questions
How do I share a YouTube video at a specific time?
Add ?t= followed by the number of seconds to the link, for example youtu.be/VIDEO_ID?t=90 for 1:30. The generator above builds it for you.
Why aren’t my YouTube chapters showing?
Usually one rule is broken: the first timestamp isn’t 0:00, there are fewer than three, or a chapter is shorter than 10 seconds. Paste your list into the checker to find the problem.
Do timestamp links work on phones?
Yes. The link opens in the YouTube app or browser at the chosen time.
Can I use hours in timestamps?
Yes. Use the format 1:02:45 for videos longer than an hour.
Do chapters need titles?
They should. Short, descriptive titles like “Setup” or “Results” help viewers and search engines understand each section.
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