Hi,

This behavior, where clips automatically shuffle to close gaps (ripple delete) and allow inserting between clips, is a core function of CapCut's timeline. When it stops working, it usually points to a specific setting being accidentally toggled or a temporary glitch.

Here is a breakdown of what might be happening and how to fix it:

1. Check the "Main Track Magnet" (Most Likely Cause):

   • CapCut has a feature represented by a magnet icon (🧲), located on the timeline toolbar (above or below the main video track).
   • This "Main Track Magnet" controls whether clips automatically snap together and whether deleting or shortening a clip causes subsequent clips to "ripple" forward to close the gap.
   • Make sure this magnet icon is turned ON (usually highlighted or blue). If it's turned off, clips will behave independently, leaving gaps when you shorten them, and inserting might become more difficult or behave like an "overwrite." Toggle it on and see if the normal behavior returns.

2. Restart CapCut: Sometimes, a simple glitch can cause unexpected behavior. Completely close the CapCut application (don't just minimize it; swipe it away from your recent apps) and then reopen it.

3. Restart Your Device: If restarting the app doesn't work, try restarting your phone or computer. This can clear temporary system-level issues that might be affecting the app.

4. Check for App Updates: Ensure you are using the latest version of CapCut. Go to your App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) or the CapCut website (Desktop) and check for updates. Developers often fix bugs in new releases.

5. Clear CapCut Cache (Mobile): Sometimes corrupted cache files can cause issues.

   • Android: Go to Settings > Apps > CapCut > Storage > Clear Cache. (Be careful not to press "Clear Data" unless you have backed up your projects, as this might delete them).
   • iOS: iOS doesn't offer a simple cache clear option per app. You might need to offload the app (Settings > General > iPhone Storage > CapCut > Offload App - this keeps your documents and data) and then reinstall it, or fully delete and reinstall (which will remove local data/drafts unless saved to the cloud).

6. Check Project Complexity: While less likely for this specific issue, very complex projects with many layers or effects can sometimes lead to sluggishness or glitches. Try testing the behavior in a brand new, simple project with just a few clips to see if the issue persists. If it only happens in your complex project, it might be related to that project's data.

7. Reinstall CapCut (Last Resort): If none of the above works, you might consider reinstalling the app. Warning: Make sure your important projects are saved (either to CapCut Cloud/Space if you use it, or exported) before deleting the app, as deleting it will likely remove any local drafts not saved to the cloud.

Most often, the culprit is the Main Track Magnet (🧲) setting being accidentally turned off. Start by checking that carefully on your timeline interface.

For a video guide on inserting clips and managing gaps in CapCut, you might find this tutorial helpful: