ffmpeg-command-syntax

CRITICAL: FFmpeg Option Ordering Rules

The most common FFmpeg mistake is putting options in the wrong place. Options in FFmpeg are position-sensitive and apply to the NEXT file specified after them.

The Golden Rule

ffmpeg [global_options] {[input_options] -i input}... {[output_options] output}...

Key principle: Options are applied to the next file. They are reset between files.

Option Categories at a Glance