Abstract: A method for encoding video data includes a step of selecting between inter-prediction and intra-prediction mode, whereby, if inter-prediction mode is selected, said method further includes a further step of sorting at least one type of inter-prediction macroblocks into different categories, in accordance with a predetermined criterion, and a step of arranging all macroblocks of said at least one type and pertaining to the same category into one slice group, thereby creating a set of slice groups for this type of interprediction macroblocks.