Ever clicked on a YouTube video and found yourself glued to the screen from the first second? That magnetic pull is usually thanks to a well-written script that guides the video’s narrative, but how do you write YouTube script like that?
A standout script knows its audience, is well-structured, and delivers clarity—it’s the backbone of any hit video. Typically, a great script follows the timeless storytelling formula:
- The hook/introduction (Act I)
- The conflict (Act II)
- The conclusion (Act III)
While this reads smoothly on paper, the real challenge lies in translating these elements into engaging content. Where do you even begin?
In this article, I’ll guide you through how to write a YouTube script that can transform your channel from ordinary to exceptional.
We’ll cover everything from identifying your topic and audience to refining your script so your content captures interest and keeps it.
I’ve also included a template you can use at the end. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Understand Your Audience
Before you begin to write a YouTube script, you have to know who you’re talking to. Your target audience influences every aspect of your script, from the tone and language to the content itself.
Start by asking yourself who your ideal viewer is. Consider factors like age, interests, and why they might seek out your video.
Generally, try to keep a conversational tone, but use language that resonates with your viewers, whether it’s formal, casual, or somewhere in between. The goal is to create content that feels made just for them, making your videos more engaging and relevant.
Examples of Scripts Targeting Audience
For example, beauty guru and influencer NikkieTutorials might use an introduction that goes something like this:
“Hello, my glow babies! It’s me, Nikkie, and today, we’re diving into the magical world of transformation, where makeup is not just beauty, it’s power. Have you ever looked at your makeup stash and felt a little overwhelmed? Don’t worry, I’ve got your back! We’re going to unleash some serious glam today, taking you from zero to hero with just a few swipes and brushes.”
On the other hand, the sage of Soulsborne lore, VaatiVidya, might start his introduction like this:
“Greetings, travelers of the dark and mysterious lands we wander. I’m Vaati, your guide through the twisted and often obscure lore that blankets our beloved world of gaming. Today, we stand at the threshold of an enigma, a tale woven with secrets and shadows, where every corner turned reveals a new piece of the puzzle.”
These two content creators know their audience very well, and you can tell who they’re targeting right from the first sentence.
By starting with a clear picture of your audience, you set the stage for a script that captures and holds attention, making your YouTube channel more appealing and relatable to your intended viewers.
Step 2: Plan Your Content Structure
Before you even begin writing your script, it’s a good idea to clarify what your goals are for that particular video. You know your audience, but what you’re trying to tell them in this video? Is your goal to inform, entertain, inspire, or teach?
For example, an educational video may need a structured approach with clear, concise points, while an entertainment video could allow for more flexibility and creativity.
If you’re struggling to come up with video topic ideas, turn to SEO tools like Ahrefs and SEMrush to explore keywords related to your niche.
You can also use YouTube’s search suggestion feature by typing a keyword into the search bar to see a list of popular queries.
This will help you not only understand your audience’s preferences but also generate content ideas that are both relevant and sought after so that your script is aligned with viewer demand.
The YouTube Script Skeleton
Whatever the topic or niche, your video script will need some bones to give it structure.
Start with a strong opening with a hook, followed by the main content that delivers on your video’s promise, and then conclude with a compelling closing thought and call to action.
Make use of headings or bullet points to organize your ideas in the script, ensuring each section flows smoothly into the next.
Case Study for How to Write a YouTube Script
Let’s use educational content creator Vsauce’s style to illustrate how this works. Usually, his videos follow this basic structure:
- Intriguing opening: Vsauce always starts his videos with a compelling question or intriguing fact that immediately grabs your attention. “Ever wondered what would happen if you stopped sleeping?? [Eyes wide to draw viewers in]”
- Expanding the topic: After that initial hook, he broadens the discussion by connecting the opening question to a wider array of related concepts. “To understand sleep, let’s explore how it’s connected to everything from our cell regeneration to our ancient ancestors’ survival strategies.”
- Deep dive into the core subject: Once he sets the stage, he dives into the core subject matter and presents complex ideas in an accessible and engaging manner. This part of the video is usually packed with demonstrations and practical examples or experiments that illustrate his point.
- Connecting ideas: Vsauce excels at linking disparate ideas in ways that highlight their interconnectedness, adding to the viewer’s understanding of the topic. “Interestingly, the concept of sleep ties into broader questions about consciousness and time perception. How does sleep alter our perception of reality??”
- Concluding insights: Vsauce typically concludes with a philosophical reflection or profound insight related to the initial question. This not only provides closure to the discussion but also leaves viewers with a sense of awe and a deeper appreciation for the complexity of the subject. “In pondering sleep, we uncover more about human nature and our quest for understanding life’s complexities. It’s not just about resting; it’s a gateway to deeper truths about ourselves.”
- Call to action: Vsauce doesn’t usually end his videos with a call to action (and at his level, he definitely doesn’t need to!) but it’s a great way to encourage the community to engage with your channel.
This structure works because it not only educates but also entertains, keeping viewers engaged throughout by constantly feeding their curiosity.
As you’ll see in the next section, this general flow of hook > body > conclusion > call to action can be the basis for a script in any niche.
Step 3: Write a YouTube Script Draft
Craft a Compelling Opening
Your video’s opening is crucial for captivating your audience. Start with a question, a surprising fact, or a relatable situation. For example, if you’re making a video on time management, you could start with, “Ever wonder why people seem to have more hours in their day? Let’s unlock the secret to their productivity.”
Include a Strong Body
Generally speaking, the body of your script should include:
- Clear explanation of concepts: Using present tense, break down your topic into digestible pieces. If you’re explaining a complex concept like blockchain, for example, use analogies, “Imagine blockchain as a digital ledger that everyone in the world can securely access and add to, but no one can alter the entries already made.”
- Use visuals and examples: Integrate examples and visuals to reinforce your points. In a video about the impact of diet on health, you could say, “Consider how replacing foods with whole foods can lower the risk of heart disease, as shown in a 2019 study by the American Heart Association.”
- Use personal stories or case studies: One great way to connect with your audience is to share personal anecdotes or case studies that make your content feel relatable. For a video on overcoming failure in publishing, for example, you might include, “JK Rowling, the author of Harry Potter, was rejected by 12 publishers before finding success. Her story is a powerful reminder that failure is just a step towards achieving our goals.”
Strategies for a Memorable Closing
End your video with a strong closing statement that reinforces your main message, offers a call to action, or poses a thought-provoking question to leave a lasting impression.
For instance, in a video about conservation, you might conclude with, “Each small action we take to protect our planets adds up to a big difference. What will your contribution be? Let’s create a sustainable future together.”
A powerful strategy to ensure your video leaves a lasting impact is to include a call to action (CTA) in your closing. This prompts your viewers to engage further with your content, whether it’s by subscribing to your channel, commenting their thoughts, or exploring a topic further on their own.
For example, if your video explores the benefits of mindfulness, your closing could include:
“Now that you’ve seen how mindfulness can transform your daily life, I challenge you to practice it for five minutes every day this week. Share your experiences in the comments below or on social media using #MindfulChallenge. Let’s embark on this journey of self-discovery together.”
This type of CTA not only reinforces the video’s message but also encourages viewer interaction and community building, making the conclusion of your video as engaging and impactful as its beginning.
Step 4: Polishing Your Script
After drafting your script, the next crucial step is editing. This process involves cutting redundant phrases, simplifying complex sentences, and ensuring your message is clear and concise. The goal is to convey your ideas as effectively as possible without unnecessary fluff.
For instance, instead of saying:
“It is absolutely essential for individuals to engage in the regular physical activity of some kind.”
Streamline it to:
“Regular physical activity is essential.”
Word Length and Video Duration
The length of your script directly influences your video’s duration. On average, a spoken script in English translates to about 125–150 words per minute. Therefore, for a 5-minute video, you should aim for a script length of approximately 625 to 750 words.
For a 10-minute video, target a script of about 1,250 to 1,500 words.
This estimate can vary depending on the speed of speech and inclusion of pauses or visual elements that might require silence to let the viewer absorb the information.
Getting Feedback and Making Revisions
Once you write a YouTube script, it’s a good idea to get a fresh pair of eyes to take a look at the final draft. If that’s your client, then show them your work and get their perspective.
They may highlight areas that need more clarity, or parts that could be more engaging. Use the feedback to refine the script to ensure that it meets the video’s goals.
Sample YouTube Script Template
Title: [Insert Title Here]
Hook: [Craft an engaging opening that grabs attention. Use a question, surprising fact, or relatable scenario.]
Introduction:
- Introduction to Topic: [Briefly introduce yourself and the topic and its relevance to the audience.]
- Purpose of the Video: [Explain what the viewer will learn or how they will benefit from watching.]
Body:
- Point 1: Detail the first aspect of your topic, including examples or anecdotes to illustrate your point.]
- Point 2: [Discuss the second aspect, providing insights and evidence to support your argument.]
- Point 3: [Conclude the body with a strong, compelling point that ties the previous sections together.]
Conclusion:
- Summary: [Summarize the key points discussed in the video, reinforcing the main message or takeaway.]
- Reflection: [Offer final thoughts, insights, or a call to reflect, enhancing the video’s impact on the viewer.]
- Call to Action (CTA): [Encourage viewers to subscribe, comment, share, or perform another action. Clearly state what action you want them to take and why it’s beneficial.]
Notes:
- Remember to keep the content tailored to your audience, using language and examples that resonate with them.
- Maintain a clear and engaging narrative flow throughout, ensuring a cohesive transition between sections.
- Adjust the script length according to your video’s intended duration, aiming for about 125–150 words per minute as a guideline.
Wrapping Up!
Writing a YouTube video script involves knowing your audience, organizing your ideas, and being clear and concise. Each step, from the hook to the final call to action, matters. By keeping your script focused and to the point, you can hold your viewers’ attention and make your message stick.
Remember, word count is important for keeping your video the right length. Stick to 125–150 words per minute to keep your audience engaged without dragging on. A good call to action at the end turns viewers into active participants, boosting your channel’s engagement.
In short, a well-planned script is the backbone of a successful YouTube video. Focus on clarity, engagement, and brevity to create content that captures and keeps attention and helps your channel to shine!
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