convert video to upload to youtube

[ktnwin]

I use my point and shoot camera to capture videos (640x480 resolution). I copy them to my PC as AVI files. Of course WMP plays these files OK. Can someone show me:
1) how to reduce to 320x280 resolution ?
2) how to update the reduced AVI to youtube for sharing ?
I used to be an active member since VCD making -> DVD-R making days and have stopped going back to this site for a few years now.
I need to learn new tricks here and really appreciate any help.
Thanks

[Baldrick]

Just upload them directly.

Why reduce the resolution?

[ktnwin]

Reducing video resolution helps viewers to view it more quickly without the video playing jerkily.
I have watched some hi res video on you tube and it's hard to get a smooth play.
I got a typo: I like to reduce it to 320x240 (not 320x280).
One more question: is there any software to allow me to cut the unwanted part of my AVI files ?

[ktnwin]

I believe I found the tool (from Balrick in a different thread), avidemux.
I just download it, will try cutting and resizing to see if this works.

[ktnwin]

I tested avidemux tool by simply cutting out the first unwanted part of my AVI file, it cut OK, but the new file (also save as AVI), plays with no sound. I did make sure the Video and Audio window show COPY there.

[zoobie]

upload your file at the capped resolution
have you considered your comp may not be able to handle playback?