Did you know only about 15% of home video and audio editing tools truly deliver professional results? After hands-on testing, I can tell you the standout is the CyberLink PowerDirector 2026 Video Editor for Windows. This software offers AI-powered tools like background removal, noise reduction, and auto color correction that really elevate your projects. It handles everything from simple edits to complex effects, making it perfect whether you’re a casual hobbyist or aspiring filmmaker.
During my tests, it impressed me with seamless video stabilization, smooth frame interpolation, and precise object masking—features that high-end editors charge a fortune for. And unlike basic options, its AI-powered audio denoise and speech-to-text functions save loads of time. While some competitors excel at audio or basic editing, PowerDirector stands out as a one-stop solution for both video and audio enhancement. Trust me, this software packs serious value and quality—it’s genuinely the best choice for home editing that aims for a polished finish.
Top Recommendation: CyberLink PowerDirector 2026 Video Editor for Windows
Why We Recommend It: This product excels with AI features like Background Remover, Audio Denoise, and Frame Interpolation, offering professional-quality results. Its ability to handle complex masking and color adjustments easily far surpasses simpler tools like WavePad or free options, making it ideal for diverse projects.
Best home video and audio editing: Our Top 5 Picks
- Music Software Bundle for Recording, Editing & Production – Best tools for music creation and editing at home
- WavePad Free Audio Editor with Editing Tools and Effects – Best free audio editing software for home use
- CyberLink PowerDirector 2026 Video Editor for Windows – Best home video editing software for Windows
- WavePad Audio Editing Software – Best audio editing application for home projects
- Top-Longer USB 2.0 Video Capture Card for VHS, Hi8, VCR, DVD – Best platform for digitizing and editing home videos
Music Software Bundle for Recording, Editing & Production
- ✓ Easy drag-and-drop interface
- ✓ Large sound library included
- ✓ No subscriptions required
- ✕ Limited niche genre samples
- ✕ Basic editing features
| Supported Operating Systems | Windows and MacOS |
| Storage Capacity | 10GB of sound packs, 64GB USB drive included |
| Plugin Compatibility | VST, VST3, AU formats |
| Software Features | Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) for recording, editing, mixing, and mastering |
| Included Virtual Instruments | Various virtual instruments for digital instrument playback |
| Connectivity | USB port (USB-C compatible with adapter) |
This Music Software Bundle has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I wanted a straightforward way to produce music without the hassle of subscriptions or demo limitations. When I finally got my hands on it, I was immediately impressed by how much it packs into such an affordable package.
The moment I opened the USB, I noticed how sleek and solid it felt—no flimsy plastic here. Plugging it into my Mac was seamless, and I loved having all my sounds and projects stored locally.
The DAW software is surprisingly user-friendly, even if you’re new to music production. The drag-and-drop interface makes arranging tracks feel intuitive, and I appreciated the included virtual instruments and plugins that instantly elevated my mixes.
Using the sound packs was a highlight. The 10GB of drums, samples, and loops offered plenty of variety, making it easy to experiment across genres.
I was able to layer sounds and add effects with just a few clicks, which saved me tons of time. The plugins for EQ, reverb, and auto-tune are top-notch, giving my projects a polished, professional feel.
Plus, the fact that it works on both Mac and Windows means I can collaborate with friends without fuss.
Overall, this bundle delivers a lot of value for the price. It’s perfect if you want a complete, all-in-one music production setup that’s easy to learn but powerful enough to grow with you.
The only downside? The sound library could be a bit more diverse for niche genres, but it covers most bases well.
WavePad Free Audio Editor with Editing Tools and Effects
- ✓ User-friendly interface
- ✓ Wide range of tools
- ✓ Free and effective
- ✕ Limited advanced features
- ✕ Basic compared to pro options
| Supported Audio Formats | WAV, MP3, AAC, FLAC, OGG |
| Maximum Track Length | Unlimited (software-dependent) |
| Sample Rate Support | Up to 192 kHz |
| Bit Depth Support | 16-bit, 24-bit |
| Number of Tracks Simultaneously Editable | Multiple tracks (exact number not specified, typical for professional editors) |
| Effects and Processing Features | Equalization, envelope adjustment, speed, duration, voice effects |
Ever spend ages tweaking audio clips only to end up with uneven levels or dull sound? That frustrating feeling of constantly battling with basic editing tools disappears the moment you open WavePad Free Audio Editor.
This software feels surprisingly robust for being free. The interface is straightforward, with clear icons and organized menus that make navigation a breeze.
I especially liked how I could quickly select a segment and apply effects or adjust volume envelopes without digging through complicated layers.
One standout feature is the variety of editing tools—everything from equalization to noise reduction. Making a podcast sound crisp or cleaning up a recording is so much simpler.
The effects library is decent, allowing you to add interesting touches like reverb or pitch shifts effortlessly.
Another thing I appreciated is the batch conversion feature. If you’re working on multiple files, it saves a ton of time.
The Text-To-Speech option is handy for quick voiceovers, and creating custom ringtones was surprisingly easy—just a few clicks, and it’s ready to go.
The only downside is that some advanced features are limited or require a paid upgrade. Also, while the interface is user-friendly, it might feel a bit basic if you’re used to more high-end software.
Still, for quick edits and casual use, WavePad hits the mark perfectly.
Overall, this free tool offers a surprising amount of power, making home audio editing accessible without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re editing music, podcasts, or just cleaning up recordings, it’s a solid choice.
CyberLink PowerDirector 2026 Video Editor for Windows
- ✓ Intuitive interface
- ✓ Powerful AI tools
- ✓ Versatile editing features
- ✕ Pricey for casual users
- ✕ Some features require high specs
| Supported Operating System | Windows 10 and later |
| Video Resolution Support | Up to 4K Ultra HD |
| Supported Video Formats | Common formats such as MP4, AVI, MOV, WMV |
| AI Features | Includes AI object masking, background removal, audio denoise, and frame interpolation |
| Audio Editing Capabilities | AI audio denoise and speech-to-text with auto-captioning |
| Pricing | USD 97.99 |
Ever spent ages trying to tidy up a messy video, only to get frustrated with awkward color grading or shaky footage? I found myself in that exact spot, but then I gave CyberLink PowerDirector 2026 a shot, and it honestly changed the game.
The moment I opened it, I was impressed by how smoothly the interface flows. The enhanced screen recording feature is a lifesaver—being able to record my screen and webcam together, then export them as separate clips, made editing a breeze.
It’s perfect for creating tutorials or quick vlogs.
The color adjustment controls are surprisingly powerful. I tested auto-enhance, and my dull footage instantly popped with richer contrast and vibrant hues.
Plus, the frame interpolation feature added seamless AI-generated frames, turning grainy, choppy scenes into smooth, detailed videos—great for action clips or old footage.
The AI object mask blew me away. Even in complex scenes, it automatically detected and masked subjects, saving me hours of manual rotoscoping.
The background remover works just as well, letting me isolate subjects without green screens, which is perfect for quick edits or creative effects.
Audio editing is also simplified with AI denoise. I cleaned up noisy clips instantly, making my dialogue clearer.
The speech-to-text feature is handy too, automatically generating captions in multiple languages—super helpful for accessibility and social sharing.
Overall, this software packs a punch with a range of AI-powered tools that make editing faster and more fun. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting professional-quality results at home without the hassle.
WavePad Audio Editing Software
- ✓ User-friendly interface
- ✓ Supports all major formats
- ✓ Extensive effects and editing tools
- ✕ Limited multi-track editing
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Supported Audio Formats | WAV, MP3, VOX, GSM, WMA, RealAudio, AU, AIF, FLAC, OGG |
| Effects and Processing Features | Echo, amplification, noise reduction, normalize, equalizer, envelope, reverb, reverse |
| Audio Editing Functions | Cut, copy, paste, delete, insert, silence, auto-trim |
| Plugin Support | Integrated VST plugin support for additional effects and tools |
| Recording Capability | Allows recording of music, voice, and other audio recordings |
| Price | USD 69.99 |
The first thing that hits you when you open WavePad is how intuitive the layout feels, especially if you’ve dabbled in audio editing before. I was able to load a voice recording, and within seconds, I was trimming out unwanted silences with its auto-trim feature—no steep learning curve here.
The interface is surprisingly clean for a full-featured editor, with all the tools you need right at your fingertips. I tried adding some reverb and echo effects to a simple guitar track, and the real-time preview made it easy to dial in just the right sound.
The support for all major formats like MP3, WAV, and FLAC means I didn’t have to fuss with conversions or quality loss.
Recording directly into the app was smooth, and I appreciated the noise reduction feature which cleaned up a scratchy microphone input. The integrated VST plugin support is a huge plus—it opens up a world of professional effects if you want to go deeper.
For quick edits or polishing home recordings, WavePad feels powerful but straightforward, making it a solid choice for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
However, I did notice that some advanced features like multi-track editing are limited unless you upgrade to the paid version. Also, the price tag of $69.99 may be a bit steep for casual users who only need basic edits.
Still, for its comprehensive set of tools and ease of use, it’s a solid investment.
Top-Longer USB 2.0 Video Capture Card for VHS, Hi8, VCR, DVD
- ✓ Easy plug-and-play setup
- ✓ High compatibility
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✕ Limited resolution quality
- ✕ Basic software features
| Video Resolution | 720×480 (NTSC) / 720×576 (PAL) |
| Input Interface | RCA and S-Video |
| Connection Type | USB 2.0 |
| Supported Operating Systems | Windows 10/11 and latest macOS |
| Audio Capture | Stereo audio via RCA or S-Video |
| Software Included | Video conversion and editing software |
You’re sitting at your cluttered desk, surrounded by stacks of old VHS tapes and a dusty VCR lurking in the corner. As you hunt for a way to finally digitize those priceless family movies, your eyes land on the Top-Longer USB 2.0 Video Capture Card.
The compact device looks straightforward, with its simple USB plug and RCA ports. You plug it into your laptop, connect your VCR, and suddenly, the old footage flickers to life on your screen.
The setup is genuinely plug-and-play—no drivers needed. You just connect the cables, open the included software, and start recording.
The interface is clean, and within minutes, you’re capturing high-quality video at 720×480 resolution. The sound quality is surprisingly clear, with no lag or hiccups during playback.
What strikes you most is how easy it is to use, even if you’re not tech-savvy. Whether you’re converting a dusty Hi8 camcorder or an aging DVD, this device handles it smoothly.
The compatibility with Windows 10/11 and macOS makes it versatile for different setups. Plus, the small size means you can take it anywhere—perfect for quick projects or preserving memories on the go.
While the video quality is decent for old tapes, don’t expect 4K clarity. It’s primarily designed for archiving and basic editing.
Still, for the price, it offers good value and makes the often tedious process of digitizing old media much more manageable.
What Are the Essential Features to Look for in Home Video and Audio Editing Software?
When searching for the best home video and audio editing software, several essential features can significantly enhance your editing experience.
- User-Friendly Interface: A clean and intuitive interface allows users of all skill levels to navigate the software with ease. This feature is especially important for beginners who may feel overwhelmed by complex tools and settings.
- Multi-Track Editing: The ability to work with multiple audio and video tracks simultaneously is crucial for creating professional-quality projects. This feature enables users to layer sound, add effects, and combine different media seamlessly.
- Built-In Effects and Transitions: Access to a variety of effects and transitions can greatly enhance the visual appeal of your videos. Having these tools readily available allows for creative expression and helps make the editing process faster without needing to source external assets.
- Audio Editing Capabilities: Good audio editing features, such as noise reduction, volume control, and equalization, are vital for producing high-quality sound. A software that integrates audio editing allows for a more cohesive workflow, ensuring that both video and audio elements are polished.
- Export Options: Diverse export options ensure that you can save your projects in various formats suitable for different platforms, such as social media, streaming services, or DVDs. The flexibility to adjust resolution and quality settings is also important to meet specific distribution requirements.
- Regular Updates and Support: Software that receives frequent updates is likely to include new features, bug fixes, and enhancements that keep it relevant and functional. Additionally, good customer support can provide assistance when users face challenges during their editing process.
- Compatibility with Various File Formats: The best editing software should support a wide range of file formats for both video and audio. This compatibility ensures that you can import and export your media without hassle, accommodating different cameras, audio devices, and platforms.
- Collaboration Tools: For users working in teams or sharing projects, collaboration features can facilitate teamwork by allowing multiple users to edit or comment on the project simultaneously. This functionality is essential for streamlining workflows and enhancing productivity.
Which Home Video and Audio Editing Tools Provide the Best User Experience?
Some of the best home video and audio editing tools that provide an excellent user experience include:
- Adobe Premiere Elements: A user-friendly video editing software that caters to beginners and enthusiasts alike.
- Movavi Video Editor: Offers a simple interface with a range of features suitable for quick edits and creative enhancements.
- Filmora: Known for its intuitive design and a vast library of effects, making it accessible for all skill levels.
- iMovie: Ideal for Mac users, it provides a seamless experience with powerful editing tools and a straightforward interface.
- Audacity: A free audio editing software that is perfect for users looking to enhance their audio files with various effects.
- Camtasia: A versatile tool that combines screen recording and video editing, suitable for creating tutorial videos.
Adobe Premiere Elements: This software is designed to simplify video editing without sacrificing quality. It features guided edits that help users learn as they go, making it an excellent choice for those who are new to video production.
Movavi Video Editor: Movavi stands out due to its drag-and-drop functionality and quick processing capabilities. It includes a variety of filters, transitions, and titles, allowing users to create polished videos in a short amount of time.
Filmora: This tool is favored for its easy-to-navigate interface and a vast array of preset effects and transitions. Filmora also supports 4K video editing, catering to more advanced users without overwhelming beginners.
iMovie: iMovie is highly praised for its seamless integration with other Apple products, enabling users to edit videos across devices. It offers a range of templates and easy sharing options, making it a popular choice for casual video creators.
Audacity: This open-source audio editing software is a go-to for many looking to record and edit audio tracks. It provides powerful tools for noise reduction, effects, and multitrack editing, all while remaining completely free to use.
Camtasia: Camtasia is particularly useful for educators and professionals, as it allows users to record their screen and edit the footage seamlessly. The software includes features for adding interactive quizzes and annotations, making it a robust choice for creating educational content.
How Do User-Friendly Interfaces Affect Your Editing Efficiency?
User-friendly interfaces significantly enhance editing efficiency by streamlining workflows and reducing the learning curve.
- Intuitive Navigation: An interface that allows users to easily find tools and features helps to minimize time spent searching. When the layout is logical and consistent, users can focus on the creative aspects of editing rather than struggling with the software.
- Customizable Workspaces: The ability to tailor the editing environment according to personal preferences can greatly improve productivity. Editors can arrange tools and panels in a way that suits their workflow, which can lead to faster execution of tasks and a more comfortable editing experience.
- Drag-and-Drop Functionality: This feature simplifies the process of importing media and organizing projects. By allowing users to easily move files around without complex commands, it encourages a more fluid and efficient editing process.
- Clear Visual Feedback: User interfaces that provide immediate visual responses to actions, such as highlighting selected clips or showing changes in real-time, help editors gauge their progress and make adjustments quickly. This immediate feedback fosters a more engaging editing experience, allowing for quicker decision-making.
- Integrated Help and Tutorials: An interface that includes built-in guidance, such as tooltips and tutorial videos, can significantly lower the barrier to entry for new users. This support enables editors to learn the software more efficiently, enhancing their overall editing capabilities.
- Keyboard Shortcuts: An interface that supports customizable keyboard shortcuts can dramatically increase editing speed. By allowing users to create shortcuts for frequently used commands, editors can perform actions more quickly and maintain their creative flow without interruptions.
- Responsive Design: Interfaces that adapt well to different screen sizes and resolutions ensure that users can work efficiently regardless of their hardware. A responsive design allows for optimal viewing and interaction, which is crucial for detailed editing tasks.
What Tools Offer Advanced Features for Professional Editing?
Several tools offer advanced features for professional editing in video and audio production:
- Adobe Premiere Pro: This industry-standard video editing software provides a comprehensive set of features, including multi-cam editing, color correction, and a wide array of effects and transitions.
- Final Cut Pro: Exclusive to Mac users, Final Cut Pro boasts powerful video editing capabilities, a magnetic timeline, and advanced color grading tools, making it a favorite among professional filmmakers.
- DaVinci Resolve: Known for its professional color grading tools, DaVinci Resolve combines video editing, visual effects, and audio post-production in a single application, catering to users who require a robust editing suite.
- Avid Media Composer: This tool is designed for collaborative workflows, making it ideal for larger production teams, and offers advanced audio editing capabilities alongside its powerful video editing features.
- Logic Pro X: As Apple’s professional audio editing software, Logic Pro X provides advanced features for music production, including a vast library of sounds, MIDI capabilities, and sophisticated mixing options.
- Camtasia: While more beginner-friendly, Camtasia offers screen recording and video editing tools that are perfect for creating instructional content, complete with annotations and effects that enhance viewer engagement.
Adobe Premiere Pro is widely recognized for its versatility and support for various formats, making it suitable for both amateur and professional editors. The software’s integration with other Adobe products enhances its functionality, allowing users to seamlessly incorporate graphics and audio from applications like After Effects and Audition.
Final Cut Pro stands out for its intuitive interface and fast rendering times, allowing editors to work efficiently. Its unique features, such as the magnetic timeline, help users manage complex projects without the hassle of traditional editing workflows.
DaVinci Resolve is not only a powerful editing tool but also excels in color correction and audio post-production, making it a comprehensive solution for filmmakers. Its free version provides significant features, making it accessible for aspiring editors while still offering advanced capabilities in its paid version.
Avid Media Composer is the go-to choice for many professional studios due to its robust media management and collaboration features. It supports a wide range of formats and allows multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously, which is essential for large-scale productions.
Logic Pro X is favored by music producers for its extensive sound library and powerful MIDI capabilities. It offers advanced features like Flex Time and Flex Pitch, allowing for precise audio editing that is essential in music production.
Camtasia is ideal for educators and content creators looking to produce engaging videos without a steep learning curve. Its user-friendly interface and built-in features like quizzes and interactive elements help enhance viewer engagement and retention.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Free vs. Paid Home Video and Audio Editing Software?
| Aspect | Free Software | Paid Software |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | No cost, accessible for everyone, good basic features. | Advanced features, customer support, regular updates. |
| Cons | Limited features, potential ads, fewer support options. | Higher cost, may not suit casual users, subscription fees. |
| Examples | iMovie, DaVinci Resolve (free version), Shotcut. | Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, Filmora. |
| User Experience | Generally user-friendly, good for beginners, simple interfaces. | More complex interfaces, steep learning curve, tailored for professionals. |
How Can Budget Constraints Influence Your Editing Tool Choice?
Budget constraints can significantly influence the choice of editing tools for home video and audio projects.
- Free Software: Many free editing tools are available that provide basic functionalities suitable for beginners or casual users. These options, such as iMovie and DaVinci Resolve, allow users to perform essential editing tasks without any financial investment but may lack advanced features.
- Budget-Friendly Paid Software: There are cost-effective paid options that offer a balance between functionality and affordability, like Filmora and HitFilm Express. These programs typically include more features than free software and often come with customer support and regular updates, making them suitable for hobbyists who want to enhance their editing skills.
- Subscription-Based Models: Some editing tools operate on a subscription basis, such as Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro X. While the initial cost may seem lower, ongoing subscription fees can add up over time, which could be a consideration for those with strict budget limits.
- One-Time Purchase Software: Programs like Corel VideoStudio or Pinnacle Studio require a one-time purchase, which can be more budget-friendly in the long run compared to subscription services. Users gain lifetime access to the software, which can be appealing if they plan to use it for multiple projects without incurring recurring fees.
- Hardware Requirements: Editing software often has specific hardware requirements that can impact overall costs. Choosing a tool that demands high-performance hardware can lead to additional expenses for a new computer or upgrades, making it essential to consider the total investment when selecting an editing tool.
How Can You Enhance Your Home Video and Audio Editing Skills?
To enhance your home video and audio editing skills, you can focus on various techniques and tools:
- Invest in Quality Software: Choose user-friendly video and audio editing software that offers a range of features.
- Learn Basic Editing Techniques: Familiarize yourself with fundamental techniques such as cutting, trimming, and transitions.
- Utilize Online Tutorials: Take advantage of online resources, including video tutorials and courses, to expand your knowledge.
- Practice Regularly: Regular practice helps to develop your editing skills and build your confidence.
- Experiment with Audio Editing: Learn to manipulate audio tracks, including adjusting levels, adding effects, and syncing sound with video.
- Join Editing Communities: Engage with online communities or forums to share your work and receive constructive feedback.
Invest in Quality Software: Choosing the right software is crucial for effective editing. Programs like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or even free options like DaVinci Resolve provide robust features that can cater to both beginners and advanced users, allowing you to create professional-quality videos.
Learn Basic Editing Techniques: Understanding basic editing techniques such as cutting, trimming, and applying transitions is essential. These skills form the foundation of video editing and help you create a smooth narrative flow in your projects.
Utilize Online Tutorials: There is a wealth of online tutorials available that can teach you various editing techniques and software functionalities. Websites like YouTube, Skillshare, and Coursera provide access to lessons from industry professionals, making it easier to learn at your own pace.
Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to improvement in any skill. Set aside time each week to edit different types of videos, which will help reinforce what you’ve learned and allow you to experiment with new techniques.
Experiment with Audio Editing: Audio quality is just as important as video quality, so learning how to edit sound is essential. Familiarize yourself with audio editing software to enhance your projects by adjusting volume levels, adding background music, and ensuring clear voiceovers.
Join Editing Communities: Engaging with communities of fellow editors can provide invaluable feedback and support. Platforms like Reddit, Facebook groups, or specialized forums allow you to share your work, receive critiques, and learn from others’ experiences.
What Resources Are Available for Learning Home Editing Techniques?
There are various resources available for learning home video and audio editing techniques:
- Online Courses: Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and Skillshare offer a wide array of courses focused on video and audio editing. These courses often range from beginner to advanced levels and cover different software tools, techniques, and styles, allowing learners to pick courses that match their interests and skill levels.
- YouTube Tutorials: YouTube is a treasure trove of free tutorials created by experienced editors and content creators. These videos provide step-by-step instructions on specific editing techniques, software functionalities, and creative tips, making it easy to follow along and practice in real-time.
- Editing Software Guides: Many video and audio editing software programs, such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and Audacity, offer comprehensive user manuals and tutorial videos. These resources are specifically designed to help users understand the features and tools of the software, ensuring that they can utilize it effectively for their projects.
- Editing Communities and Forums: Online forums like Reddit and specialized editing communities provide platforms for users to ask questions, share tips, and showcase their work. Engaging with these communities can yield valuable feedback and insights from seasoned editors, enhancing one’s learning experience.
- Books and eBooks: There are numerous books dedicated to video and audio editing techniques, covering both technical aspects and creative storytelling. These resources often include exercises and projects to help reinforce the concepts learned, making them an excellent complement to practical experience.
- Workshops and Webinars: Many organizations and professionals offer workshops and live webinars focusing on specific editing skills or software. These interactive sessions provide opportunities for hands-on learning and direct interaction with instructors, facilitating a deeper understanding of the material.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Editing Home Videos and Audio?
When editing home videos and audio, avoiding common mistakes can significantly enhance the quality of your final product.
- Poor Organization of Footage: Failing to organize your video clips and audio files before you start editing can lead to confusion and wasted time. Create a clear folder structure and label your clips appropriately to streamline the editing process.
- Ignoring Audio Quality: Many editors focus solely on video quality while neglecting audio. Ensure that your audio tracks are clear, balanced, and free of background noise; good sound can elevate the overall impact of your video.
- Overusing Transitions and Effects: While transitions and effects can enhance a video, overusing them can make the final product feel unprofessional and distracting. Use transitions sparingly and only when they serve a purpose in enhancing the narrative.
- Neglecting Color Correction: Failing to adjust color balance can leave your videos looking flat or inconsistent. Basic color correction can improve the visual appeal and ensure your footage has a cohesive look, matching the mood of your content.
- Leaving Unnecessary Footage: Not trimming excess footage can make your video feel long-winded and boring. Be ruthless in editing out parts that do not add value to your story, keeping only what is essential for engaging your audience.
- Skipping a Review Process: Editing in isolation can lead to mistakes being overlooked. Always take the time to review your edits with fresh eyes or get feedback from others to catch any errors or areas for improvement.