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Table of Contents
- 1. Start with a Strong Hook
- Best Practices for a Hook:
- 2. Introduce Yourself and Set Expectations
- Best Practices for Introductions:
- 3. Outline the Main Content in Clear, Digestible Points
- Best Practices for Structuring the Script:
- 4. Use Simple Language and Short Sentences
- Best Practices for Language:
- 5. Add Personality and Storytelling
- Best Practices for Personalization:
- 6. End with a Clear and Engaging Call-to-Action (CTA)
- Best Practices for Closings:
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Creating your first YouTube video is exciting, but if you want it to go viral, you’ll need a solid, well-written script.
Writing a great script isn’t just about what you say—it’s about how you say it. By following these best practices, you’ll be well on your way to creating a video that captures attention and keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.
1. Start with a Strong Hook
Your hook is the first few seconds of your video, and it’s crucial. This is when viewers decide if they’ll stick around or scroll past. A great hook immediately grabs attention and makes people curious to keep watching.
Best Practices for a Hook:
- Ask a Question: Engage viewers by posing a question that they can’t resist answering. For example: “Ever wondered how some YouTube channels blow up overnight?”
- Make a Bold Statement: Grab attention with something unexpected. “You’re doing YouTube scripts wrong—here’s how to fix it.”
- Use a Surprising Fact: Start with an interesting statistic or fact related to your topic.“Did you know 60% of YouTube viewers decide within 10 seconds if they’ll watch a video?”
Example hook:
- "Want to learn how to make viral YouTube videos? I’ll show you exactly how I crafted my first video that got 100k views!"
Here is a video with a good hook. Using a surprising fact.
2. Introduce Yourself and Set Expectations
After the hook, it’s time to introduce yourself and tell your audience what the video is about. Keep this section brief—viewers clicked to watch your content, so don’t drag out the intro.
Best Practices for Introductions:
- Keep it Short: In just one or two sentences, say who you are and what the video will cover.
- Set Expectations: Give viewers a clear idea of what they’ll gain by watching. This creates curiosity and keeps them interested.
Example:
"Hey, I’m [Your Name], and in today’s video, I’m going to share the exact steps I used to create my first viral YouTube video, and how you can do it too!"
By adding keywords like “viral YouTube script tips” and “beginner YouTube video ideas”, you increase the chances of ranking for terms that new YouTubers search for.
3. Outline the Main Content in Clear, Digestible Points
Now that viewers know who you are and what your video is about, dive into the main content. Structure is key—break your video into clear, digestible sections to keep it easy to follow and engaging.
Best Practices for Structuring the Script:
- Use Bullet Points or Steps: Organize your content into 3-5 key points. Each point should be concise and directly related to the video’s main topic.
- Keep it Action-Oriented: Give viewers something they can apply right away. This increases engagement and retention.
- Focus on One Idea at a Time: Avoid overwhelming your audience by covering too much in one go.
Example Structure:
- Step 1: Research Your Topic: Start by researching what’s trending in your niche. Use tools like YouTube search suggestions, Google Trends, or sites like AnswerThePublic.
- Step 2: Define Your Audience: Tailor your script to the specific group of people you want to reach. Ask yourself: What problems can I solve for them? What are they interested in?
- Step 3: Plan Your Key Takeaways: What should viewers remember from your video? Highlight your key points or takeaways in each section.
4. Use Simple Language and Short Sentences
When writing your script, imagine you’re having a casual conversation with a friend. Simple language makes your content easier to follow and digest. Avoid using technical jargon unless it’s necessary for your audience.
Best Practices for Language:
- Keep Sentences Short: Aim for 10-15 words per sentence. If it sounds too complicated, simplify it.
- Avoid Filler Words: Phrases like “uh,” “um,” or “you know” make your script feel less polished. Practice reading it aloud to ensure it flows naturally.
- Write for Your Audience: Tailor your language based on the knowledge level of your viewers. Are they beginners, intermediate, or advanced?
Example:
Before: “In order to effectively target a demographic for your content, one must engage in detailed audience analysis and determine their preferences.”
After: “To reach your target audience, figure out what they like and what problems they want solved.”
5. Add Personality and Storytelling
People connect with people. Adding your personality into the script helps viewers feel like they know you, and storytelling makes your message more relatable and engaging.
Best Practices for Personalization:
- Be Authentic: Share personal stories, challenges, or moments from your life that tie into your video topic.
- Use Humor (if it fits): A bit of humor can lighten the mood and keep viewers entertained. Just make sure it aligns with your audience and topic.
- Stay Relatable: Connect with your audience by addressing common challenges or experiences.
Example:
"When I started my YouTube channel, I thought my first video would get thousands of views overnight. Spoiler alert—it didn’t. But here’s what I learned from that experience and how it helped me create my first viral video."
6. End with a Clear and Engaging Call-to-Action (CTA)
Your video’s ending is just as important as the beginning. End with a strong call-to-action (CTA) to tell viewers exactly what you want them to do next, whether it’s liking the video, subscribing, or commenting.
Best Practices for Closings:
- Make it Direct: Tell viewers specifically what to do next. Example: “Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay updated with my latest tips.”
- Tease Your Next Video: Give them a reason to come back for more content. Example: “In my next video, I’ll show you how to film your YouTube videos like a pro using just your phone.”
- Encourage Engagement: Ask viewers to share their thoughts in the comments, suggest video ideas, or even ask a question to spark a conversation.
I’ve attached a video that integrates most of these tips to to keep the users engaged. Watch below.
Creating a simple, effective script for your first YouTube video doesn’t have to be hard. By starting with a strong hook, breaking your content into clear steps, and adding your personality, you’ll create a video that’s engaging and has the potential to go viral. Follow these best practices, and soon, you’ll be creating content that viewers can’t stop watching.
Now it’s time to take action—start scripting and make your first YouTube video a viral hit!