What is the purpose of scratch disks in video editing?

The purpose of scratch disks in video editing is to hold temporary audio and video files during editing. When you are working on a project in Adobe Premiere, a significant amount of data is generated as you make edits, render effects, and process playback. Scratch disks provide a designated storage location for these files, which include previews, render files, audio waveforms, and other temporary media needed for the editing process.

Utilizing scratch disks effectively enhances performance since these temporary files can grow quickly; storing them on a fast hard drive or SSD can significantly speed up the editing workflow. By separating these files from the main project files, you can keep your workspace organized and maintain the integrity of your completed project files. This approach also allows for easier management of disk space, as you can clear out scratch disk data when it is no longer needed, without affecting the original media or project files.