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Video script writing 101: How-to steps + templates and examples
It’s no secret: v ideo gets more engagement and drives more growth than any other type of media.
But you’ll only reap the benefits if your marketing videos are at least decently produced.
That doesn’t mean every video needs a Hollywood budget, but you do need to put time into planning your video and writing a video script (or asking AI to write one for you).
The good news? Learning how to write a good video script is easier than it looks. This guide covers the basics of writing a script and gives you examples to help you write your own.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- How to script a video with AI .
- How to plan your script.
- Best practices for writing a script.
- Tips for choosing the “right” kind of script.
- Example video scripts to jog your creativity.
Stay tuned until the end and we’ll also walk you through our favorite ready-to-edit presentation, promo, and explainer video script templates available from Biteable .
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Video scripts made easy: Start with a Biteable template
You don’t have to write your own video script from scratch. Video script templates are the busy video maker’s secret weapon.
Biteable’s online video-making software offers hundreds of video templates to jump-start your script-writing creativity.
- Fully customizable.
- One-click editing.
- Ready-made content. (24+ million clips, images, animations, music tracks).
- Free 7-day trial
How to script a video with AI
The easiest way to script and create videos is with a little help from your newest assistant: AI. Biteable’s AI-powered Automated Video Assistant (AVA) scripts and creates your video with the click of a button.
Read your complete guide to scripting and creating videos with AI for the step-by-step details.
How to write a video script
Before we go anywhere with video, let’s be clear about this: keep it simple. As you plan your video and write your script, it’s all too easy to start throwing all sorts of cool ideas out. After all, you can do anything in a video, right?
With an unlimited budget, sure. But we’re willing to bet your budget is limited. So keep your videos as simple as possible. You’d be surprised how much work it takes to produce very minimal on-screen effects.
Planning your video script
With all that in mind, start planning your script. Some writers call this “ prewriting ”.
1. Identify your audience.
This is a staple in any sort of marketing or copywriting. You need to address a very specific customer with your content, otherwise it won’t resonate. It can be tempting to make it as broad as possible in order to address every potential customer. Avoid this temptation. Something that’s for everybody appeals to nobody.
If you need help identifying who you want to reach, go through the exercises on this worksheet from digitalmarketer.com.
2. Choose a goal
Next you need to know what the point of the video is. This will depend on where your audience will see the video, what stage of the marketing funnel the video will be used at, and what you want viewers to do after they watch the video, and the key performance indicators you use to track your success.
But if you want viewers to do something specific after seeing the video, you’ll need a call to action. Just make sure your call to action aligns with the purpose of the video. Have a look at this video for FreshBooks. The purpose of the video is quite clear, even if it’s not explicitly stated.
3. Decide on a central character
If your video features too many people, it will be difficult to follow and the focus will stray from the main point. Identifying the primary character does two things:
- It simplifies and focuses your video.
- It pushes you toward creating a story (if your video needs it).
Some videos, like a product overview, have very little story in them. However, it’s still best if a single person does most of the talking. If you’re producing a video with a narrative arc, it’s best to focus on the main character.
In either case, you need to know who’s going to be on screen most of the time. If you need two or more people in the video, choose one person to show for a majority of the screen time.
Bonus tip: If you can, use the same person as the spokesperson in all your videos. This creates continuity and familiarity in your video content. That’s why brands often create characters that almost function as mascots, like Flo from Progressive.
4. Identify the main point of the video
This boils down to a very simple exercise: tell someone why they should watch this video in one sentence.
When you start writing your script, put the answer to this question as close to the beginning as possible. Let viewers know what they’re going to get right up front, and you’ll retain more viewers.
As a bonus, identifying the point of the video will also tell you what sort of video you need.
Writing your video script
If your planning is good, the writing will be fairly easy. You’ve already created your map. Just follow it.
5. Write out visual and audio elements.
This is super important if you’re doing any sort of voiceover with visuals that cut to different shots. But even if your video is a single shot of someone talking, write the visual and audio aspects into your script.
The script is a set of directions for whoever is shooting the video, and you want the video team to know, without a doubt, what’s supposed to be happening with both the visual and audio elements.
A simple table with two columns is an easy way to format your script. It’s easy to read and see how the video will look and sound. This is a brief two-column video script example:
Add as many boxes as you need to cover all the shots in your video.
6. Write your script, then trim to fit
Depending on the sort of video you’re making, you may need to cram everything into 15 or 30 seconds, or you could have a full three minutes or more to work with.
Either way, plan for 125 to 150 words of dialogue per minute.
But when you start writing, focus on saying everything you want to say. Once you’ve got all the dialogue written, check your word count, then start axing and rewording until it fits your time limit.
This method makes your script clear and concise. It forces you to keep only the dialogue you need .
Here are a few brief tips for writing dialogue:
Speak directly to the audience. Use “you” and talk to your viewers. It’s more personable, and people prefer being spoken to rather than being spoken at.
Write it the way you would say it. Your audience isn’t going to read your script. So write what you would actually say, not what looks best on paper.
- Read your script out loud. This is the only way to find out if your dialogue sounds natural. If you make changes, read it out loud again.
Once the dialogue is clean, you’ll know roughly how much footage you need to shoot and what shots you need. If you’re using a voiceover, be sure to shoot some extra footage to account for pauses in the dialogue and visuals that don’t make the cut.
Bonus tip: Use AI to get the first draft of your script. Use a chatbot like ChatGPT , or skip to the finished video with AVA — Biteable’s AI-powered Automated Video Assistant.
7. Stick to the video script (mostly)
This is technically not part of writing the script. But it’s related to writing your script. It boils down to one question: why bother writing the script if you’re not going to follow it? That’s like paying an architect to draw a floor plan, then just building your house all willy-nilly.
Once you start filming, follow your script as much as possible. Some minor changes are fine, and professional actors or voice actors can contribute some flair. Or, if you find you don’t have the resources to do what you planned, you may need to make changes or go back and rewrite the script.
But avoid making major changes to the script on the fly just because you think of something cool. Ad hoc changes and ad-libbing rarely turn out for the best. Explosions are cool, but don’t blow everything up just to have some fun.
How to write the right kind of video script
Marketing videos accomplish two things:
- They educate viewers.
- They persuade viewers.
Some videos only do one of the two and some do both, but we’re going to split the various types into one of these two categories to keep things simple.
Educational videos: Presentation and explainer video scripts (+ templates)
Presentation and explainer videos fall into the educational category.
These videos are usually for:
- Demonstrating how to do something.
- Explaining how your product or service works.
- Introducing what your brand does.
The keys to success with educational videos are brevity and visuals.
Concise information is easier to remember. That’s why phone numbers are seven digits long. So keep your video short and break it up into manageable blocks of information to help viewers retain what you’ve shown them.
Also, include relevant visuals to show and tell the viewer what you’re explaining, which will increase retention even more. Here’s an excellent explainer video from Mint:
It’s short (1:32), the visuals are relevant, and the dialogue is broken up into separate statements.
This explainer video from Dollar Shave Club is legendary:
Watch this one more than once, because it’s hilarious. But once you stop spitting coffee, notice how the dialogue is broken up into 10-15 second chunks, which are separated by funny visuals. Distinct, memorable blocks of information.
And just for giggles, here’s a bonus videos to get your inspired.
To help you create your own explainer or presentation video, Biteable offers video templates you can edit yourself. Here are a few presentation and explainer video script templates to get you started:
Persuasive videos: Promotional and commercial video scripts (+ templates)
Promotional and commercial videos are for getting people to do things. The action you’re after isn’t always an immediate purchase. You could use a persuasive video to get people to consume additional promotional content.
But, most often, promotional and commercial videos are for:
- Showing the benefits and features of your product or service.
- Demonstrating what separates your brand from competitors.
- Showcasing how your product or service will improve your customer’s life .
Customers will often view these videos on social media or in a sidebar on a website. Getting to the point and keeping it short are non-negotiable. A call to action is mandatory as well.
These videos usually get watched with the sound off, so write your script and plan your visuals to work without sound. Including subtitles is also a good idea.
You might be thinking “great! I’ll save myself time and create a video with no dialogue!” That’s a perfectly good idea, but even if your video has no dialogue, don’t skip the script. Write a script for the visuals so you have a plan to work from.
Here are some examples of commercial videos that work well on multiple platforms:
Notice how short these are. Also note that all of them are consumable without sound. But the main takeaway from these videos is that you need to get attention, deliver your message, and get out before your viewer swipes you off their screen.
Video templates starter pack
We know that can be challenging, so we created a starter pack of video template collections you can use and edit yourself:
- Social media video templates .
- Video ad templates .
- Promotional video templates .
- Explainer video script templates .
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How to Write a Video Script [Template + Video]
Published: March 15, 2024
Videos tell a story. According to 92% of marketers, video is essential to their approach. So, the storyline should be effective, whether creating video scripts from scratch or using a template.
Although creating, organizing, and editing compelling videos can be lengthy and scary, a good script can make or break the success of your video.
So, why donât we take you through the steps on how you can start your scriptwriting process?
What is a video script?
A video script contains the dialogue, plans, and action for your video. It's a crucial tool that gives you and your team cues and reminders about the goal, timeline, and results you want for your video.
Any basic video is elevated with a script, but thereâs more to creating a video . Youâll need proper equipment, sound, lighting, sets, and the cast and crew. When combining these, it can be challenging to make sure there are no mistakes.
A strong video script can seamlessly bring it all together. Plus, having an in-depth script will boost your team's confidence and result in a better video outcome.
How to Write a Video Script
Video script template, video script example.
- Choose your target audience.
- Set a goal for your video script.
- Choose the main character for your video.
- Create a brief.
- Use your brief to write an outline.
- Start writing your script, section by section.
- Edit your video script.
- Do a verbal run-through off-camera.
1. Choose your target audience.
Any marketing project is better with the right buyer persona . This is especially true with video.
Because videos often take more time and investment than an online ad or blog, your video must speak to a specific audience.
So, before you start developing characters or a brief for your video, you need to figure out who your video is for. Your target audience for your video script can impact:
- The length and format of your video.
- Where you post your video.
- Setting, costume, and lighting.
If your video is for brand awareness, you may broadcast to a large and diverse audience. But what if youâre introducing a product or feature?
In that case, youâll want to focus your audience on the buyers who are most likely to feel the pain point your product solves.
You might want a different approach if your video is for employee or customer retention. You'll want to review data, reviews, and testimonials before you begin your script brief.
This will help you create the story and dialogue your audience will respond to.
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2. Set a goal for your video script.
Videos are usually team projects. Without a single focus, every person could come to the video with their idea of what it's about. As the project continues, this can turn a simple video into a convoluted mess.
That's why starting your video script is essential by just thinking about your goal. So, before you jump into a storyline, character, or setting, figure out the why.
Why are you making this video?
Do you want to teach people about your product? Are you introducing a new pricing structure? Are you trying to expand into a new niche?
If youâre not sure about your goal, think about the problem youâre hoping this video will solve.
For example, say you're struggling with conversions for a new product.
- Is it because you're breaking into a new niche? A product video on the right social media platform for this niche might be right.
- Do users need better instructions? You might want to add a product tour or instructional video to your website.
- Are you getting good reviews? You may want to partner with influencers to build a reputation for this product.
Don't jump into your video script without deciding on a single goal.
Then, use your goal to set the metrics youâll use to measure the videoâs performance once it goes live.
3. Choose the main character for your video.
Video marketing helps you show your viewers what your product can do instead of telling them. And characters are essential to storytelling.
Choosing the main character for your video before you begin your script will help you focus on telling a story, not just selling an idea. This will help your audience connect and engage with your video.
You may already know that your main character is your ideal customer or your CEO. They could be a celebrity, a cartoon of your product, or a narrator who speaks in your brand voice.
But if not, before you start writing your video script, decide who will be the focus of your video.
If you don't know who your main character is, go back to your goal and target audience. Think about who your buyer persona wants to hear from as they reach that stage of their journey.
Next, outline your main character. You can use the habits, quirks, and voice of your main character to paint a picture for your audience that helps them remember and relate to your video.
Once you've figured out your main character, you can decide how they relate to your product. Do you want to talk about their back story? Are you going to talk about a specific experience they had and how your product helped?
4. Create a brief.
Creating a brief allows you and your team to document the answers to the most important project questions. This helps everyone involved understand the who, what, when, where, and why of your video.
Say youâre three-quarters of the way through the editing process. If your boss or colleague wants to completely redo half of your video, thatâs a huge problem.
Challenges like this can impact your budget, timing, and campaigns. But with a brief, you can refer to the goals and project plan your team mapped out together and say, âActually, that's not what we agreed to.â
Then, you can move forward.
Focus on your goals, topic, and takeaways in your brief.
A brief doesn't have to be fancy, nor does it have to follow a specific formula. However, there are several vital questions it should include to craft an effective video script.
- Whatâs the video topic? (The more specific, the better. For example, if youâre in the house painting business, you might choose a topic like âbuying the right paint brush.â)
- What are the key takeaways of the video? What should viewers learn from watching it?
- Whatâs our call-to-action? What do we want viewers to do after theyâve finished watching the video?
You can easily create a brief in Google Docs to serve as a living, breathing template that you revise over time â and that your team can collaborate on.
5. Use your brief to write an outline.
Once youâve picked a topic and written a brief, itâs time to start constructing your video script. We recommend starting with an outline to give structure to your video script.
This way, you can break your video into subtopics and decide how your dialogue (or monologue) will progress.
Are you basing your video script on a blog?
You canât just rewrite a blog post and call it a day â thereâs a specific way to write a blog-based script so that it shapes an effective video. Alicia Collins can teach you a bit more in the video below (and yes, we wrote a script for it).
Like Alicia says in the video above, a video script shouldnât simply regurgitate the blog post word-for-word. Blog posts are ideally written to be conversational.
But there are pauses and verbal explanations youâll need to add to your speech patterns that you wouldnât have without your script.
But, using the blog post's subsections is a helpful starting point when figuring out how your script will progress from one section to the next.
Are you writing an original video script?
Start with a well-structured outline. Many video scripts follow a three-part structure that includes:
- An introduction and hook to draw viewers into your video.
- A problem, pain point, or question comes up.
- A conclusion and resolution of the problem, including a call to action.
This is a basic video script structure, but you can go in many ways as you outline your story. This structure will help you write a script that covers the details that make your video believable and valuable to your audience.
As you create your outline, think about where natural transitions happen.
For example, say you're writing a video script about the life of a new product. You might outline your script with the steps a business might take to launch a product, including:
- Coming up with the idea.
- Doing market research.
- Designing the new product.
- Producing a test product.
- Editing the product for mass production.
- Audience testing.
- Marketing and sales strategies.
- Product launch.
Your primary goal is to engage your target audience with a situation they can connect with. This can help them understand how the challenges you share in your video relate to the problems they want to solve in their own lives.
6. Start writing your script, section by section.
Your video script doesnât have to be fancy. Youâre not trying to submit this script for any awards â its purpose is strictly functional.
A good script makes it easy for the people on camera to get their messages across while sounding and acting naturally.
Write conversationally.
Writing a script isnât the same as writing a college paper or marketing research report. You want to write the script how you want the video subject to speak.
Saying, âI'm gonna create a video after reading this blog postâ on camera will read much better than, âI am going to create a video after reading this blog post.â Keep sentences short and crisp, and try to avoid compound sentences.
Make it thorough.
A script doesn't just include dialogue. If your video will require multiple shots, characters, or scenes, include these details. Be sure to include any necessary information about the set or stage actions, such as a wardrobe change.
Basically, you want the script to be thorough enough that you could hand it off to someone else to shoot, and they'd understand it.
Write for the audience and the platform.
Make sure youâre keeping your script conversational for the people youâre trying to connect with â and infuse humor, tone, and inflection accordingly.
For example, if youâre writing a short-form video for Facebook, you might want to consider keeping your script choppier with sentence fragments.
But if youâre producing a long-form explainer video for your website, make sure you're as thorough as possible.
Script every single word.
It's understandable to think you can just jot down the main bullet points for a script and then just wing it on camera, especially if you know your subject matter.
This approach makes it tough to communicate a message as clearly and concisely as possible, and it usually results in a lot of redos.
So, we suggest scripting every last word. Doing this will keep you organized during filming and save you loads of time later.
7. Edit your video script.
Writing is tough, and itâs easy to get stuck if you expect your video script to be perfect on your first draft. Itâs worth doing two to three rounds of edits to cut any unnecessary words in your writing.
These are a few more tips for editing your script so that the video script can make your final video shine.
Give yourself a break.
Step away from your script after you write it, and don't go back until you can look at it from a fresh perspective.
Check for transitions.
Dialogue and actions will move your story forward. So, look for moments in your script that feel abrupt or awkward. Then, add details that will help your viewers understand what is happening.
Cut the extras.
Great writing and interesting dialogue will be bad for your video if they don't advance your story. Edit out these parts and save them for a later project if you think they can be useful.
8. Do a verbal run-through off-camera.
Now that you know how to write a script, it's time for a table read. This is the part where you practice bringing your script to life on camera.
Why practice? Because some words look great on paper, but once you read them aloud, they just don't sound right. Reading your video script out loud can help you make the language more conversational and your sentences shorter.
You can read your script aloud while editing, but the table read is where you really get to fine-tune the tone. Itâs when you can mix anything that sounds too proper, improper, robotic, or otherwise inappropriate for the message you want to convey.
Check out this video for a fun example of a table read:
Nothing is more frustrating than nervously trying to write an effective video script while staring at a blank sheet. It's easy to feel overwhelmed with all of the ideas floating around.
So, where do you even start? How do you sort and narrow all the ideas to write a strong screenplay? Furthermore, how do you direct this creative tempest into a script that engages the audience?
Well, starting with a template makes it that much easier. Here are some of our video marketing starter packs with a free video script template you can consider. Also, check out the HubSpot video below for more info.
Letâs explore multiple templates for different types of videos:
1. HubSpotâs All-in-One Video Script Template
You can modify scripts to match their brand voice and the preferences of their audience by adding sections and prompts that may be customized. This allows for more efficient storytelling and message delivery.
HubSpotâs template enhances the overall quality of videos while saving time and effort by ensuring the smooth integration of text and visuals.
Weâve incorporated every aspect discussed in this blog post using HubSpot's video script template below.
Don't forget to share this post!
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How to Write a Script for a Video (+Free Template!)
Marketing Content Strategist
Table of contents
Why do you need a video script, how to write a video script, tips to write an amazing video script, subscribe to techsmithâs newsletter.
Creating a stunning video requires a wide variety of skills and talents. One of the key factors in a videoâs success happens long before any lighting decisions are made or the audio recordings need editing. Excellent videos require excellent scripts, but writing a script for a video can be one of the most difficult things for a creator.
Because of that, weâve put together this step-by-step guide to creating a great video script! Weâve even included a free video script template that you can use to make sure all of your videos start out with a solid foundation.
For some great scriptwriting tips, check out the video below!
To get more inspiration
How often have you found that getting words flowing from your mind onto paper just opens up a floodgate? Ideas and inspiration just seem to multiply once you allow them to flow. Because of this, the process of writing a video script can unlock ideas you may otherwise have missed.
So often when we put pen to paper we are able to access pieces of our imagination that add really important elements to our end product. Writing a video script can be a springboard for all of the things that will make your video impactful.
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To deliver your message efficiently
Structure and clarity are two non-negotiables for successful videos. Writing a script for your video is a great way to make sure that your message follows a logical pattern and that the viewer is able to clearly understand the point you are trying to get across.
Writing a video script also helps to make sure that the message is delivered in a way that is in line with established brand standards – audience confusion is not efficient!
Also read: Everything You Need to Know About Mobile Video Recording
To save editing time
The script for your video will outline all of the audio and visual components that the final product should display. This could include sound bytes, illustrations, and animations among others. An editor who is able to work from a prepared video script will be able to do their job in a more timely way than the editor who is left to guess where each element belongs.
A narrator or main character who is guided by a full script will have fewer instances of hesitation or interjections of fillers like âumâ, âlikeâ, and âuhâ, which can significantly impact editing time .
To make recording easier
Recording is made infinitely easier when the process is guided by a well-developed script. If you are recording solo, having a script to refer to can help calm your nerves and keep you on topic.
If you are recording an interview, being able to provide the script to the interviewee in advance can help them prepare, often resulting in fewer takes and less editing required to create an excellent end product.
Identify your audience
A key step in video script writing doesnât involve a pen, paper, or a video camera. Identifying the target audience for the video being developed is an all-important first step. Your choices around language, humor and tone will vary depending on the audience identified for the video. Creating a script that is engaging for teenagers is very different than writing a script for a video targeting retirees! If you donât know exactly who you are speaking to it is likely that your message won’t be well received.
Knowing your audience is also important when it comes to how the end product is used. A video geared toward teenagers may be only a few minutes long, recorded vertically, and placed on TikTok, while a training video for new employees would be much longer in duration and require less focus on an attention-grabbing hook.
Set a goal for your video
Because creating a video consists of so many different elements ( lighting , sets, cast, crew, sound, etcâŠ) there are often many people participating in the process. In order to have that process run smoothly and create the desired end product, all of these people need to be working towards one unifying goal. Without this, you can run into a lot of difficulties as a result of each person holding a slightly different perspective about why the video is being made.
The key question to ask yourself at this pivotal point is âwhy?â Why is this video being made? Is it meant to teach people something? To unify a group of people? To establish a brandâs identity? Knowing and sharing the answer to this question will help steer your video script writing and the work that everyone else involved is doing as well.
If you are struggling to identify your videoâs goal, think about the problem that the video is meant to solve. Is it to direct potential clients to a specific offer that needs some attention? Provide clearer instructions on a protocol thatâs not being adhered to. Reduce workplace accidents? Increase website conversions on an underperforming site? It can be a challenge to narrow down one specific goal but it is an absolutely essential step to take before you begin writing a script for a video.
Choose the main characters
Good storytelling is key to creating compelling videos, and what is a story without some engaging and relatable characters? Developing a character, or a set of them, for your video, not only helps your audience engage more with the content but it can also help you focus on creating an effective narrative around your message instead of simply selling an idea.
If you are struggling to identify the main character, go back to your target audience and your goal. Think about who that audience would relate to and want to hear from in relation to the goal you have established for the video. For example, if your videoâs goal is to build trust with a company following a public failure, having the CEO as the main character may suit, whereas if your video is a solution to a recurring workplace accident, the health and safety representative might be a good choice.
Once the main character or characters have been established, youâll build out some details about them that will help guide your video script writing. How do they relate to the product or subject matter at hand? Is their backstory relevant? If so, what is it? You donât need a full character profile but you should go into as much detail as is necessary to help you reach the goal you have identified.
Write an outline
Starting with an outline helps to give structure to your video script. It is a great starting place to get all of your ideas out of your head and onto paper so that you can see which ones fit well in a structured video script and move you toward your goal and which ones may actually end up as distractions.
It can be tempting to jump right into video script writing but skipping this important step can cause your message to be lost and the video to appear overstuffed and disorganized. Your outline should help to establish what the beginning, middle, and end of the video script will include. You can include any details that might be helpful as you move into the next step – video script writing.
Hereâs the script formula we use to create how-to videos:
The A.A.A.A Formula
- Attention (Grab their attention in the first line)
- Agitation (Agitate the pain that you can solve)
- Activity (Show them HOW to solve it)
- Action (Call them to action and tell them how to get the solution)
Create sections
Breaking your outline down and writing a video script section by section is an excellent way to make sure your thoughts stay organized and the storyline for your video follows a logical progression. So what exactly should be included in each section of your video? Letâs take a look!
In the beginning:
- Start with a hook. Whatâs a hook? A compelling introduction to your video that delivers an accurate preview of what the viewer can expect and immediately captures their attention. You might use phrases like âHave you everâŠâ âHere are 3 of our top tips forâŠâ or âIf youâre looking forâŠâ as components of your hook.
- Make sure the viewer can recognize your brand and associate this videoâs message with it. You can do this by incorporating brand colors into the scheme for the video, displaying a logo, and making sure to write your video script using brand-aligned language and tone. This helps establish your video as something familiar and trustworthy rather than a random piece of content to ignore.
Now that youâve drawn them in, youâll use the middle section to:
- Deliver your message. Youâve drawn them in with the hook and established who you are, so now is the time to tell them exactly what you came here to tell them. Be sure to write this portion of your video script to be as clear and concise as possible so that the message doesnât get watered down or confused.
- Share the evidence. This is a great opportunity in your video script writing to present anything to the audience that can back up or solidify any claims made with your message. Is your video script meant to introduce a new product?
Share the experiences of your beta users. Is this a training video? Establish the proven benefits of absorbing and applying the information being provided.
And finally, the end. This section of your video script should
include a Call to Action (CTA). This is the opportunity within your video script to tell the audience exactly what you want them to do. Whether thatâs âbook nowâ, âwatch the next videoâ, âbuy nowâ, or anything else, do not miss this opportunity to provide that extra bit of clarity around what you want the viewer to do with the information you have just provided.
Writing a video script is a lot of work, but the end result will be well worth it. And the great news is, you donât have to start from scratch every time you need to create one! A video script template can really speed up the process and help keep you on the right track with your video script writing. Weâve created a video script writing template that you can download for free here and put to use on your next project!
Also read: The ultimate guide to instructional videos
Stay true to yourself
Weâve all had the experience of watching someone speak, whether live or on video, and being painfully aware that they are reading from a script. And you would probably agree that those experiences were not the most engaging.
So how do you prevent that from happening with your video scriptwriting? Well, a focus on writing conversationally is a big help with this. If youâre writing a script that you will be speaking from, write it the way that you talk normally. If the video script will be read by someone else, learn a little bit about the nuances of how they speak and interact with others and write the script for their video in a way that reflects that.
Make sure to write your video script using language that feels comfortable, is aligned with the brand youâre representing, and feels familiar. If you are comfortable and remaining true to your natural communication patterns (or those of the speaker you are writing for) your audience will be more fully engaged than if it feels obvious that you are âputting on a showâ.
Go straight to the point
The average human attention span is a maximum of 8 seconds, and people are used to being entertained. Taking the time and energy to consume your content may not seem like a big ask, but in this day and age, it actually might be.
For these reasons, it is important to get right to the point and be as concise as you can be when writing a video script. Surrounding your message with too much back story or context can be distracting and confusing for viewers. Save any of the information that you think is important to share but doesnât fit well within a concise video script for use in future videos or other types of content.
Stick to the video script (mostly)
You are writing this video script for a reason right? And part of that reason is to make sure the message gets delivered and the video fulfills its goal . A little riffing or adlibbing here and there is ok but do try to stick to the script as much as possible. A few additions to add personality can go a long way, but too much will likely have a negative impact.
If you or the person who will be presenting the script are likely to go off script, try to include some of the content that may inspire the adlibbing in the video script itself. This can reduce the temptation to go rogue. And if, in the end, the video script just isnât working, a rewrite is often more effective than an improvised, unscripted video.
Also read: The guide to creating Youtube videos
Do a verbal run-through off-camera.
A verbal run-through, or table read, is a great opportunity to take your video script out for a test drive and identify any challenges you may have missed in the writing phase. It is not at all uncommon for a word or phrase to look great on paper but sound ridiculous when spoken out loud.
An off-camera run-through can also help to shorten sentences, cut unnecessary words, and make sure the real-life impact of the words chosen is the same as what you were hoping for during the video scriptâs writing.
Having someone who is a member of the target audience for the video you have scripted sit in and provide feedback at this point can also help to make sure that your video scriptwriting is going to land the way you want it to with the intended audience.
Support any B-roll with the proper callouts in your main narrative.
B-roll is a term used to describe secondary shots that are shown while the storyline continues audibly. Using B-roll footage can allow you to feature products, employees, happy customers, charts and graphs, testimonials, and other content that enhances the message presented by your video.
Be sure to include cues and instructions for your narrator or main character to help integrate B-roll footage without causing confusion or distraction for the viewer. Phrasing like â…in the chart you see hereâŠâ can help the viewer contextualize what they see on the screen and guide the speaker to gesture or position themselves appropriately.
Weâve all seen the videos where the subject points in one direction and the B-roll footage shows up somewhere else, but thatâs much less likely to happen to you with a properly scripted video.
Donât forget – there is no need to start from scratch every time you need to write a script for a video. If you have a video script that has worked well in the past, you can easily templatize it and keep using it!
If you need some help to get started, click here to download the free video script template we created for you. You simply document some background information, like your target audience and goals, and then fill in the blanks – what could be simpler?
Additional Resources
Snagit vs. camtasia: which screen recorder is right for you, how to reduce video file size, how to make a screencast in 5 easy steps.
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6 video script templates that will make your videos stand out.
Creating video content for your business? Use these video script templates to get started with your scripts. (Including real examples for inspiration!)
Published on Nov 26, 2022
By Austin Distel
Marketers may not have set out to make movies, but video is a powerful asset to add to any marketing strategy . But not just any video will do.
Youâve got to create a video that speaks to your target audience, holds your viewersâ attention, and effectively communicates your brandâs key messages. For that reason, marketers need to know how to write a good script that serves as a starting point for video production.
Video script templates are a helpful resource to have on hand when you start your next video project. Below, weâll dive into what you need to have in your script if you want your video to really stand out and provide you with some templates and examples you can use to get inspired and start writing!
Elements of a standout video script
There are many different approaches to writing a great video script . While some people prefer to write their marketing video scripts like a movie script with visual details written alongside the dialogue, others prefer to organize the script visually by using a table or including a storyboard.
Regardless of your chosen script format, there are a few common elements of great marketing video scripts:
Clearly outlined visual and audio elements
When it comes to videos, the script isnât just about whatâs being said on camera or in the narration. You need to include both the visual and audio elements in your script to show how the two work together to tell a complete story .
There are different ways you can do this in the actual script. You can include the details within the text like this article from HubSpot :
Youâll notice the visual elements are right alongside the voiceover details and sound effects. This is a great option for talking head videos where one person is talking, as it makes it easy for them to recognize the visual cues and incorporate them into the video in the right spots.
Another option is to use two separate columns, lining up the video details with the audio script like this example from Biteable :
Each shot or scene can have its own row so there is a clear understanding of the scene change. This is a great option for videos that are being created by different team members. The audio script might be used by the person doing the voiceover, while the visual script may be important for the person editing the clips together.
Clear, concise dialogue
People have short attention spans. Thatâs why itâs essential to stick to just the dialogue you need to use or the details that you must include for the viewer to understand the content. This doesnât mean the video has to be devoid of personality. However, youâll want to trim the fluff before you start recording.
One of the best ways to make sure your script contains just the necessary details is to create an outline before you start writing. An outline will help you stay on track while discussing the most important aspects of the topic.
"The key to holding the audience's attention is pacing," said Finn McKenty , head of product at URMÂ Academy. "The most common mistake is rambling. Nobody wants to hear you drone on, so be ruthless with yourself when it comes to editing. The most common mistake is rambling. Nobody wants to hear you drone on, so be ruthless with yourself when it comes to editing. Trim every single bit of fat that you can. If people ask for more detail, that's a great signal that you did your job! Don't try to pack every detail into a single video."
To create an outline in Jasper, youâll choose the âVideo Script Outlineâ option from the Templates section. Then, include your video title or topic as well as the tone of voice youâd like for the video.
Jasper will generate multiple outputs for you to choose from. You can choose the one you like best or mix and match, taking the sections you want to use to create your own unique outline.
Hereâs an example of a video script outline for â5 Ways to Increase your LSAT score in 2021â: â
Short, catchy hook
The hook should grab the readerâs attention in the first 15 seconds of the video. Even though itâs short, itâs a vital part of the video as it helps the viewer understand whether they should watch the rest of the video or move on.
Not sure how to get started? You can use Jasper to create video script hooks and introductions in seconds. Just enter the video title and the tone of voice, and voila! Youâll have different options for your video hook and introduction.
âWake up viewers by flipping the script on expectations with a rebel question,â said Tina Lorenz , a freelance copywriter with roughly 20 years of experience. âFor example, imagine you're creating a video about boosting productivity. The expected question might be: âWant to get more done in less time?" (Yawn...) Instead, flip it. Ask, "What if sledge-hammering productivity made you 5x more successful?â...Asking this question challenges conventional wisdom and goes against the grain.
âA rebel question isn't just a hook; it's a statement of intention. It announces, âWe're about to veer off the beaten path. You in?ââ
Hereâs an example from the âVideo Script Hook and Introductionâ template in Jasper:
Clear call to action (CTA)
A clear call to action is essential to include in your video script. You need to make it clear what you want the viewer to do or where you want them to go next. The CTA should inspire them to act on the information theyâve just watched. This can be a call to make a purchase, download a resource, start a free trial, or even just follow your YouTube channel.
Be sure to use clear and concise language so there is no question or confusion about what they should do next. For example, rather than, âweâve got other tech tip videos on our YouTube channel,â you can say something more clear and specific like, âCheck out our video on how to use AI writing assistants to write your blog posts !â
Copywriter Tina Lorenz has a few examples to share as well.
"Tell them very clearly: 'Here's What to Do Next.'" she said. "Don't suggest; direct: 'See that big yellow 'Join Now' button? Punch it right now, and let's get started.'
"Create authentic urgency: 'Here's why you need to act now. The first 10 people to sign up today, get a free 30-minute consultation with me, valued at $2,500. Together, we'll lay out your complete marketing plan!'
"Seal the deal: 'So don't wait! Hit the button now.'"
6 video script templates (with examples)
Here are video script templates for the six most common types of videos:
1. How-to video script template
If you want your how-to video or tutorial to be effective, youâll need to make sure that it breaks down the process into steps that the viewer can follow along with. Donât include too much instruction or information in each step. You should also signal when you are moving to the next step with transitional words.Â
Clearly state what youâll be teaching the viewer how to do. Make sure they know why itâs valuable to learn!
Introduce the topic quickly
Go through each step in the process, including any details necessary to help the viewer understand how to do it.
Call to Action
Include the next step. Whether thatâs telling them where to go for help, pointing them to another resource, or inviting them to try your product or service, your CTA should be clear and concise.
Hereâs an example from InVideo of a good script that breaks down how to blur moving objects in videos:
One reason why this script is such a great example is that the speaker uses transitions to make it clear when they are moving on to the next step. Words like âfirst,â âsecond,â ânext,â and âfinallyâ signal to the viewer that the next step is coming, so there will be a new direction. This helps keep viewers engaged and on the same page.
Also, for each step in the process, there's clear instruction for what should be shown on video to correspond with the voiceover. This is especially important because sometimes the person putting together the video clips is not the same person doing the voiceover. Having both directions clearly written out in the script makes it easier for the whole team.
2. Educational video script template
The most important thing to remember when creating an educational video script is that it needs to be digestible. Most viewers donât want to watch an hour-long lecture, especially if the video is on your website service or product page. Instead, try to focus on 3-5 key takeaways that you can concisely give the viewer.
Hereâs an educational video script template you can use:
Grab the readerâs attention, and clearly identify what they will be learning in the video.
Quickly introduce the topic. Be sure to include why itâs important so viewers know why they should watch the whole thing.
Provide 3-5 tips, facts, or other kinds of takeaways. Give a short bit of context or background and go straight into the takeaway. You want to keep these rather short, so only provide the necessary details.
Call to ActionÂ
Where should the viewer go next? Do you have an additional resource they can view? Want them to join your email list? Clearly communicate their next step here. You may even want to embed a link in the video so they can click it and go!
Now that youâve got the template, letâs look at an effective video script from Wistia :
This example follows a similar script format as it breaks up the topic into 3 clear takeaways. This makes the video content more digestible for the viewer, making it easier for you to get your message across.
In the formatting of this script, there are clear indications of who is speaking in each section of the video and what they are saying. There are also clear callouts that indicate what should be happening visually throughout the video. The video text is bolded, and thereâs a note when a link should appear in the video.
3. Video testimonial script template
While some video testimonials are unscripted, testimonial videos that present the entire client story or case study should be scripted. These types of testimonials are typically longer than the ones you might get from customers singing your praises. They include a lot of important details to really tell the customerâs story from beginning to end.
Hereâs a video testimonial script you can use for a case study or client story:
Introduce the client and provide a few details that offer context for the testimonial, such as who they are or what their company does.
For this section, you can ask the client in an interview format or just have them summarize where they were before they used your product or service. What pain points were they looking to solve for? How did it impact them?
Ask the client about the results they experienced using your product or service. Have them include specific statistics or metrics if possible.Â
The client should explain how using the product or service to get the results they did has impacted themselves or their business in a significant way.Â
Conclusion/CTA
The client should wrap up the video with some details of the overall experience of working with your company or using your product. Then, include where they should go next either in the voiceover or in text.
Hereâs an example of a case study video script in an interview script:
In this example, you can see that what the client is going to say isnât actually scripted. Instead, thereâs a summary of what the person will cover in the client interview. By allowing the customer to speak candidly about the experience (instead of giving them a script), the testimonial will sound more authentic and genuine.
Learn how to take full advantage of AI â past video scripts â with A Marketing Team's Guide to Generative AI ! â
4. Product tour or explainer video script template
Much like the how-to or educational video, explainer videos need to break down the topic into smaller chunks of information that are easier to understand. Avoid bogging down the viewer with too much information or irrelevant details, as it can detract from the main point of the video, which is to offer an overview of a product, service, or concept.
Use this explainer video script to get started:
Describe what you will be explaining in the video and why the viewer should care about this topic.
Main Points/Features/Steps
Take the viewer through 3-5 points that guide them through the product, service, or process that you are explaining. Keep these concise, and donât include any unnecessary information.
What should the viewer walk away with? Reiterate the importance of what you have explained. Then, include a CTA that brings them to the next step in the journey, whether thatâs to buy something or get additional information.
Hereâs an example of a product tour video script:
This script includes all of the elements of the template. It opens with a quick introduction that tells the viewer what the purpose of the video is. Then it dives into each feature, quickly and concisely, only including the most important details about each.
This format makes it easy to see what is happening in both the audio and video by separating the script into two different columns. If youâre a visual processor, this could be a great way to structure your own video scripts, no matter what type of video you are creating.
5. Brand promotion script template
Brand promo videos are multipurpose. For example, they could explain your core values and mission to potential and current customers. Or they could showcase your company culture to attract top-tier talent. No matter what your goal is, hereâs a template you can use for this script type:Â
Rather than giving a prepared speech, try to make your intro feel as authentic as possible, perhaps by sharing raw customer or employee comments. And make sure your brand personality comes through.Â
Main PointsÂ
Dig deeper into your message for the videoâcore values, culture, vision, unique value proposition, etc. Focus especially on the aspects of those things that your target audience values.Â
If appropriate, state a direct call-to-action such as âVisit our Careers page today.â Otherwise, highlight the key takeaway you want viewers to leave with.Â
As you can see from the script below, the Life at Uber video follows this format. It starts off with brief but attention-grabbing descriptions of the company and leads into more detailed comments from happy employees. And, while thereâs no direct call-to-action at the end of this video, the next stepâapplying at Uberâis alluded to by many of the employees being interviewed.Â
6. Video announcement script template
Lastly, video is a great format for making company announcements such as product or feature launches. What does an effective video announcement script include? Hereâs a simple, 3-part template you can use:Â
Whether you immediately introduce the big news or use another lead-in, you need an attention-grabber. Something that will spark curiosity, generate excitement or tug on viewersâ heartstrings.Â
Main Points/Features
Get to the meat of your announcement, being sure to explain why viewers should care or how it affects them, if at all.Â
Wrap up with an appropriate conclusion. Depending on the announcement, this could be a call-to-action, an estimate of when additional information will be available, or a thank you to your customers, etc.Â
ClickUpâs announcement video for the âWhen it Clickedâ podcast uses this format.Â
At less than 30 seconds long with nearly 500 likes, it goes to show that your scripts donât have to be long or elaborate to be powerful.Â
Want to write video scripts faster?
If youâre creating a lot of video content, then you know that the scriptwriting process can be time-consuming. Jasper can help you write video scripts faster by enabling you to quickly create video outlines and hooks in just seconds.
Jasper , with its advanced understanding of technology and marketing, offers a unique edge to marketers crafting video scripts. When Jasper gets to work on a script, it taps into a vast knowledge base that you can evolve and customize as your brand positioning changes and products grow. This ensures every line reflects your product's cutting-edge features and aligns seamlessly with the company ethos.
In scripting, voice and tone are key, and Jasper knows it. Whether it's a straightforward explanation of a complex service or a quick, clever quip to make the message memorable, Jasper adapts to your ideal voicing . Simply tell Jasper which brand voice you'd like to tap into for the video and watch him work magic.
Once the script is build, Jasper can take things a step further by optimizing an entire marketing campaign around that one asset. Or it can suggest a wide variety of additional content, then help you build it.
Why not see for yourself!
[.blog-demo-button]Sign up for Jasper today![.blog-demo-button]
Meet The Author:
Austin Distel
Austin Distel is the Sr. Director of Marketing at Jasper , your AI marketing co-pilot. When not working, Austin is also an Airbnb superhost in Austin, Texas.
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Video Scripts 101: Tips, Tricks and 10+ Free Templates
5 months ago.
The art of crafting visual content is an eclectic mix of creativity and strategic thinking.
In the past years, weâve been working with and for many video creators, and weâve been learning from them exactly what it is that makes the ideas tick and how to get the creative spark going. This is why weâre sharing some industry secrets with you, starting with the very base of any piece of video content: the video script. You know how they say Rome wasnât built in a day, but if someone had the right blueprint, it could have gone a lot smoother.
Since making video creation experiences smoother is our specialty, weâre ready to walk you through what video scripts are, how to draft one up, and everything else you might need to know before you jump lens-first into creating your content. On top of that, youâll find 10+ free video script templates up for grabs, so hang in there, open the âNotesâ app, or grab a pen and letâs go!
- What is a video script?
When we hear video script, one of the first things that comes to mind is a movie or a theater script, right? Well, your intuition is right on this one, as a video script does pretty much exactly the same thing as its cinematic or theatrical counterpart. A video script is the roadmap of your content, and it not only covers dialogue but also clearly establishes how it will be delivered through elements such as tone or pauses, and it also determines all the other adjoining details of the video.
Letâs take a look at an example: youâre shooting a music video, and you need to achieve the maximum level of drama as the lead singer stares into their romantic interestâs eyes and mouths an emotional â Goodbye â. A well-done video script would definitely include these directions for both actors, as well as additional ambiance directions, such as dimming the light.
Thereâs no such thing as too many details when it comes to a video script, so this can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if youâve never done this before and if youâre working with other creators. Worry not, as weâre here to help you by walking through everything a video script is, deconstructing the logic behind it, the HOW TO, and giving you examples so your creative journey starts in style.
- Why do you need video scripts?
You might wonder why itâs a good idea to resort to a video script template. Well, the short answer is efficiency. Whether weâre talking about time efficiency, production efficiency, or improved accessibility, it all boils down to an optimized workflow process that takes you worrying about every little detail out of the equation and leaves enough room for creativity to flow. Here are the main reasons why knowing how to write a video script and implementing this plan is essential:
Structure, clarity, and precision
Having a clear structure of the message you are trying to convey means, in fact, that you are one step ahead of the game. Fine-tuning your message while still in the drafting stage of your video script means no rambling and a clear discourse that your audience can easily understand and follow.
Time effectiveness
Why waste time with a dozen takes, all because you keep getting a better idea to change your speech with every single take? Having a video script template to start from is a time-saver on more than one level. This way, you not only have a coherent speech, but you also can keep track of the exact length of the video while you are filming, so you can adjust timing to fit different platform requirements.
Accessibility
Adding captions to your video is a proven method to increase engagement and visibility. So, why not take advantage of this by checking this off your list before you even film the video? While some video editing tools have an AI subtitle generator already built in, if youâre opting for one that does not have this feature, itâs a good idea to have the video script ready to go in text format, so you can add captions that would make your video accessible even to viewers unable to listen or hear.
Storytelling
What really engages your audience is your storytelling technique. It doesnât matter what type of project youâre working on, as long as you remember that effective storytelling is a key component of your video script. Think of the essence of the message youâre trying to convey, and then try explaining that to a child, a stranger, a best friend, or a grandparent. Improvise and adapt it to your audience's demographics, background, and needs.
SEO improvements
While not a priority for everyone, having a video script can definitely help your videos SEO-wise. By incorporating relevant keywords into your video, either through speech or through a description, youâre increasing your visibility and chances to be picked up in higher ranks by search engines.
Legal protection
On account of the different laws in place in various countries, itâs more than important to pay attention to what youâre saying and how youâre saying it. Off the top of our minds, think of the GDPR law in Europe and why itâs essential to be mindful of the information you are trying to convey. This is why having a video script in place will help prevent any legal mishaps.
- What types of projects require video scripts?
It doesnât matter if youâre a social media content creator, a teacher looking to launch an online video course, a vlogger, or you work with any type of video production project. Video scripts are probably the industryâs Holy Grail, and this is why weâve had a more in-depth look at some of the most common use cases. Weâve slipped a few tips and tricks for you to draw inspiration from and, without any further ado, level up your expertise so youâll become a video script master in no time.
Ads video script
Advertisements are short and have a quick window for capturing the audience's attention. They can be melancholic, funny, dramatic, or appealing to any other of the publicâs emotions. No matter the tone of your ad, make sure that your video scripts include a call to action, prompting future users to do something: either a purchase, trying out a demo offering, signing up for a newsletter, you name it. Make sure to highlight the value that the product or service youâre promoting brings to the table and entice the audience to go from a first-time purchase to a loyal customer by making it memorable.
Educational video script
Educational content is all providing an engaging learning experience for your audience, regardless if weâre thinking of quick online courses or even academia-level courses. Break down the content into logical, bite-sized chunks of information and add text to video to help visual learners. Leave room for interactive elements that spark discussion like polls or quizzes and encourage active participation to make the learning experience more fun for the audience. Last but not least, keep in mind that your video scripts need to feature a conclusion that highlights key takeaways and a call to action for further practice.
Product Demo video script :
Product demonstration video scripts have a clear purpose: they create a narrative and visual experience that has one result: they drive understanding and increase interest in said product.
Start your walkthrough with key features, how the product is the right answer to the audienceâs needs or solves one of their pain points, and end with a no-fluff demonstration of its usage. Make sure that your video script balances an informative tone and engaging hooks, with the greater purpose of making the userâs journey easier.
Social Media video script
Did you know that the first couple of seconds are vital to grasping your audienceâs attention? Yes, that would be our number one tip for writing social media video scripts. It doesnât matter if youâre on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn or any other platform you can think of. Be snappy and have a real conversation with your followers, because authenticity is always the answer. You can even use the voiceover technique, so give a try to tools that help you extract audio from video and play around with editing. Another important thing to have in mind is that social media platforms come with guidelines, meaning that you need to be careful with video length. So how can you fit a 4 minute speech into a 90-second Instagram reel? Well, thatâs where your craftsmanship comes into play, so make sure you time your lines and donât go over the platformâs time limit.
YouTube Video script:
Writing a YouTube video script can be one hell of a journey! We should know since weâve been doing this for a good while now. No need to panic, though, as we got you covered with a detailed guide that gives you the best tips on writing a YouTube video script . By the way, if youâre specifically looking for some YouTube intro video script inspiration, try to integrate your lines with the ever-so-cool YouTube hover hooks technique to catch the eye of viewers. Remember to have fun with this and be mindful of platform-specific requirements and calls to action. By now weâre sure youâre familiar with the classic formula âLike, share, and subscribeâ, so get creative and donât be scared to start filming.
Animated Video script
Bring beloved characters to life through stories that you craft in animated video briefs. Since video scripts are the blueprint for animations, they will become the handbook of entire creative teams (even if youâre a one-man show, it will feel good to leave directions for yourself). Animators, voice actors, and writers come together to bring animated colorful characters to life through the power of storytelling, so never underestimate the power of well-written video scripts.
Podcast video script
Podcast video scripts are the invisible hand that guides moderators and guests through captivating conversations. Every detail, from the introduction of the host all the way to key questions, cues, and talking points are crucial elements of a podcast video script. If youâre looking for inspiration try a podcast transcript tool to break down your favorite showâs lines and see how they are scripted. Use a podcast video editor to mix and match audio and visuals for the best outcome and make your dream come true by streaming away on multiple mediums.
Tutorial or How-To Video script
If youâre wondering how to write a video script for tutorials or how-to videos, a good starting place is a general presentation. Then, break down the content with a step-by-step approach, so you can walk your audience through everything they need to know. This type of video scripts require a carefully curated structure and language. Depending on your target audience, the tone can range from easy-to-understand, formal to highly technical jargon. Remember that itâs vital to break down complex tasks into bite-sized segments that are easy to understand and manage by your viewers.
Video Game script
Scripts for video games reviews, guides, or walkthroughs are the foundation pillars of interactive virtual worlds and all the derivative content you can think of. As weâre sure youâre used to this by now, the audience takes center stage, no matter what type of video youâre sharing. With guides, adapt your speech accordingly: if youâre addressing advanced players, try to steer clear of over-explaining basic concepts, whereas if youâre talking to beginners, plenty of details on the mechanics are a good idea. For reviews, be careful not to spoil the game, and start with the very beginning. Do make sure to provide context for your observations and ground them objectively. Create a clear structure for your video and break it down into chapters, so your viewers can easily navigate through the bits theyâre interested in. For example, some may be concerned with performance optimization and machine specs, so instead of forcing them to sit through the entire video instead of pinpointing sections, you can give them a chance to get information and choose whether they want to watch the rest.
Corporate Video script
A showcase of a professional environment is what you can do best, as long as youâve got a good plan (ergo, you prepare the video scripts beforehand). Usually, corporate companies have a brand book that tells you all you need to know, so make good use of such resources. Start the scriptwriting with a short introduction on the organizationâs history, their mission and vision, then walk through what products and services they offer and any mention-worthy achievements. What better way to show off the company culture and values than to feature employee testimonials? Leave room for some interviews in your video script and youâll thank yourself later on.
- How to write a video script
No matter the category your video production falls under, the benefits of crafting a video script weigh heavily. Here is how to write a script for a video by answering all these questions in detail and youâll have a complete checklist to follow:
1. Who is your target audience?
Start by answering this one simple question: who will be watching this video? Who are they beyond a username? What are their needs, wants, desires or problems? Remember that while we respond to stories we can relate to, sometimes a little bit of magic and fiction goes a long way. After you thoroughly research and understand who youâre creating for, you can define other pivotal elements such as the platform where you plan to share the video, its length, and all the other things that go into the nitty gritty but crucial category.
2. What is your videoâs goal?
Now that you know whoâs going to be watching itâs time to ask yourself why they would be watching. Your video has to serve a purpose and tick a little box that shows it has achieved, well, something. Think of the topic youâre filming about and deconstruct the reasoning behind that: is it helping people solve a problem? Is it selling a service or product? Is it creating brand awareness?
3. What is your plan?
Picking your topic may be a piece of cake, but narrowing down the approach and the overall feel, down to downright detailed notes may not be as easy. Our advice is to develop a concise plan that answers all questions on the theme of the video, key takeaways, and its final purpose through the goals you wish to achieve.
4. What does the overall picture look like?
This is where the real fun begins and you get to create an outline of the video itself. The best way to do that is to write a video brief that details on the what, who, when, where, why, and most importantly how the magic is going to happen. Donât be afraid to experiment and jot down all ideas that come to mind; after all, you can clean up the text in the next stages.
PS: Weâve got two free video brief templates up for grabs, along with a complete guide to help you get inspired
5. What are the main sections in your video?
Scriptwriting section by section is underrated. Take your video script writing process one step at a time and do go into details as much as you can. While you may be tempted to only write down the main ideas and improvise, we advise that you stick to a clear structure. Start with a catchy introduction that will make your audience want to keep watching, then move on to the body of the script, where you deliver high-quality content in just the right manner. Incorporate the appropriate call to action and key takeaways into your outro and youâre good to go!
6. How do you review, revise, and rewrite?
Now that the hard part seems to be over, itâs time to get even more creative and go through everything youâve written down. Take pen to paper or keyboard to screen and cut down any lines you feel donât fit anymore or add any last-minute jokes you just thought of. Do factor in transitions and effects you might want to incorporate so that everything blends in seamlessly. Remember to give yourself a break whenever you feel like you need a breather.
7. Have you tried a first rehearsal?
Our best advice is that you do a trial run with all the cameras off, so thereâs no sort of pressure. You know how the cast of any infamous movie or series sit down at a round table and do the traditional âfirst readingâ? Now itâs your turn to do exactly that, and rumor has it that this final stage is when you get the best ideas and you can put the finishing touches on your video script masterpiece.
Ready, set, action! Now that weâve wrapped up with everything you need to know about video scripts, itâs time to take a page out of the playbook and take center stage with your own creations. Try out the lightning-fast online video editor and start editing your cinematic masterpiece.
- Free resource: Video Script Templates for Your Project
Download the free video script templates for creators
The video script templates for creators were carefully crafted to help you ask all the right questions and come up with just the right answers. Download the free video script example templates, and use them to make your video projects come to life.
Frequently asked questions
What should be in a video script?
What does a video script do?
What are the 4 main parts of a video script?
How can I improve my video script?
How do you end a video script?
How do I write a script for a video template?
How do you write a video script brief?
Alexa Nicolae
Content Writer at Flixier
Alexandra is in love with navigating the digital landscape and believes that crafting the right pixels into stories creates the perfect canvas for creative journeys.
Table Of Contents
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How to Make an Eye-catching Video Presentation in Minutes | InVideo
- video presentation
Video is now the undisputed king of mediums in business communication. HubSpot reports that 85% of companies use videos in their marketing efforts. From webinars to demos, from sales presentations to investor pitches, and from welcome videos to online tutorials, videos are the go-to channel. Clearly, video marketing is on the surge.
And video presentations are among the most widely used formats for video marketing. But how exactly can you create winning video presentations, to begin with?
Simply by signing up to InVideo for business where you get tailor-made template and video editing services on demand so you can spend your time running your business. Sign up for a free demo here.
Video Presentations Q&A
Before we get into the meat of our guide, letâs quickly answer a few commonly asked questions.
1. What is a Video Presentation?
A video presentation is a form of communicating with an audience with the aid of a video or completely using a video. The video could be made of PowerPoint slides , still images, animation, or actual video footage.
2. Why Should I use Video Presentations?
Common reasons for using videos as presentation aids include:
- Overcoming space/time limitations - Using video as a visual aide to drive your point home - Video enables you to compress a lot of information into a digestible size
3. How do I make a Video Presentation?
Thanks to the advancements in technology, making video presentations has become very easy. It has also become more affordable than it was a couple of years ago. While different video makers have different steps to take when making a video , here are the basic steps to follow:
- Come up with a concept for your presentation. - Craft an engaging script . - Decide on the visual assets (and format) youâll use. - Use a professional video editing app to bring it all together. - Promote the video.
Pro tip: To make things even easier, you could sign up to InVideo for business and get presentations made for your brand using the editing-on-demand services. Sign up for a free demo here .
4. How do you begin a Presentation?
You can open your presentation in 7 ways:
1. Share an anecdote or short personal story. 2. Kick-off with a provocative statement. 3. Present a startling statistic or data. 4. Tell a good clean joke that suits the audience. 5. Ask a loaded rhetorical question. 6. Show the audience a compelling visual. 7. Hook people with a fascinating quotation.
5. How do you Make a Video Presentation with PowerPoint?
Turning a PowerPoint presentation into a video is easy. Just follow these steps:
Step 1: On the File menu, select Save to make sure you have saved all your recent work in PowerPoint presentation format (.pptx).
Step 2: On the File menu, select Save As .
Step 3: Select the folder location where you want to store your PowerPoint Show file.
Step 4: In the Save as type box, choose PowerPoint Show (*.ppsx) .
Step 5: Select Save . Thatâs it.
Now that weâve answered a few basic questions, letâs dig deeper into why videos are so powerful.
What Makes Video Presentations so Effective?
Why do they increase the impact of your message?
Well, itâs simple, really â people are visual creatures. This means we take in more information by watching than by reading. Remember the saying, âa picture is worth a thousand wordsâ? Besides that, here are 4 other reasons video is so effective:
1. Conveys emotions better
No other communication channel conveys emotions better than video. Thatâs because video caters to the brainâs visual and auditory systems, helping the viewer pick up on cues like body language, facial expressions, imagery, and music.
2. Cements information better
According to research , people remember 10% of what they hear and 20% of what they read. However, they remember a staggering 80% of what they experienced. In short, visuals are easier to remember than text or audio because they help your audience âexperienceâ your message. It makes video an essential part of creating presentations your audience will remember for a long time.
3. Makes it easier to digest information
Especially when explaining complicated concepts, video is a great way to present information in an easy-to-understand way. Not only is the format easy to take in, but it also makes breaking down concepts easier.
4. Builds relationships fast
Iâm sure you know the marketing mantra: people buy from people they know, like, and trust. Nothing beats video in making prospects or your audience know, like, and trust you⊠fast. Video is an instant relationship builder. Itâs the next best thing to live face-to-face communication.
A video is a great tool that has made it easier to communicate thoughts and ideas with people â not just in a room, but even across the globe.
6 Types of Video Presentations You Need to Know
Video presentations come in different flavors, depending on their purpose.
1. Educational Presentations
These are mainly used in teaching and learning sets online or in a classroom setting. These make it easier for the teacher to convey information and the students to grasp the concepts.
Use this template
2. Sales Presentations
The field of sales has evolved tremendously in the past decade. With customers being savvier, sales reps must play the game well if theyâre to bag sales. One way they can do that is by creating story-based sales video presentations.
Sell more with pro video presentations
Use 5000+ InVideo templates to get started
3. Investor Pitches
Need to woo an investor? One of the best ways to do that is by using a video pitch. This will help you present your business plan in a visually appealing way so they can easily grasp your business concept.
4. Promotional Videos
Whether youâre promoting an existing product or a new one, video is your best bet for getting eyeballs on your product (or cause). People relate better to what they can see, making video the best medium for presenting your promotions (like product reviews, for example).
5. Employee Training and Onboarding
Video presentations are great for conducting employee training and onboarding. One of the main reasons for this is that video helps reduce the resources spent on these 2 important aspects of employee relationship management.
6. Informational Videos
As the name suggests, the informational/how-to type of presentation serves to pass on important information. Why video in this case? Because itâs more engaging and can pack a lot of information in a short clip.
Pro tip: You can get tailor-made templates to create any kind of presentation for your brand or business using InVideo for business . Sign up for a free demo here .
How to create killer Video Presentations â 4 Tips
Now you know why video presentations are important and which scenarios to use them in. Now to the fun part â tips on creating killer video presentations. Letâs get to it, shall we?
Tip #1 - Know your Audience
The most important aspect of creating a stellar presentation is to know and understand your audience. Even if you use the best video presentation maker , if you donât target a specific, clearly defined audience, your presentation will flop. Understanding your audience will help you:
A. Communicate effectively
Effective communication involves knowing the language and examples that resonate with your audience.
B. Choose the right visuals
Certain visuals are more impactful when used on a particular audience. Study those that your audience will easily understand and relate to.
C. Connect on an emotional level
No matter the type of presentation, itâs crucial to connect with your audience on an emotional level. And to do that, you need to understand the emotional triggers to push in your video presentation.
Invest in adequate audience research. While it may be time-consuming (and a bit costly), it will pay off in the end.
Idea #2 - Brainstorm video content ideas
Now that you have gathered enough audience data, itâs time to brainstorm some content ideas. Whether youâre creating your talk solo or as a team, 3 crucial questions will lay the foundation of your brainstorming session:
1. What do you want the video to achieve? 2. Which emotions do you want the video to evoke? 3. What will visual elements help your video achieve its goal?
The answers to these questions will help guide your ideas. They are key to creating a killer video that your audience will love.
Tip #3 - Craft engaging scripts
Audience research? Check.
Great idea? Check.
Now we get to another interesting stage of creating great video presentations â crafting an engaging script. Whether itâs a live presentation, a webinar, or even a product review, youâll need a great script to ensure you keep your audience engaged.
Even if you love creating impromptu videos, having a script for your video presentations is important. And no, you need not be Quentin Tarantino to produce a great video script (although it wonât hurt to learn how to become a good copywriter). Here are 3 reasons a good video script is a must:
1) Helps structure your video
To ensure your video has a smooth and progressive flow, youâll need a good script.
2) Eliminates âdead spotsâ
Dead spots, or moments of inactivity, are a great turn-off in a video. They reek of unprofessionalism and can lead to your audience disengaging. The best way to eliminate dead spots is to craft a solid video script .
3) Keeps you on track
Itâs very easy to get sidetracked when creating a video . However, with a script, you minimize the instances of going off-topic.
Creating scripts for your videos is a best practice that shouldnât be overlooked. If anything, invest more in your script than the visuals as a good script can save a video with poor visuals.
Pro-tip: Once youâre confident about your script, it is time to make things even more clear. A storyboard will allow you to break down your video visually, scene by scene, describing what is happening in it.
Tip #4 - Invest in the Right Tools
With video, one thing you should never skimp on is the tools you use, particularly your video editing software. While there is a gazillion free video editing software on the market, itâs highly recommended that you use a professional video editor . And that means going the paid route.
Why should you spend on a video editor when there are countless free options available? Hereâs why:
A. Get more (professional) features
Creating professional-looking videos requires a lot of resources and features. Most free video editors lack the features that will enable you to create professional videos.
B. Avoid branding and ads
With video editing software, free is never free. Thatâs because you pay through being forced to include the video editors brand in your work. In other words, you pay by advertising for them. Besides branding, some free video editors may subject you to irritating in-app ads.
If thereâs one thing thatâs inevitable when it comes to software, itâs that one time or another youâll encounter glitches. This is where paid video editors have a great advantage over their free counterparts â youâll have access to customer support.
From hardware (like cameras) to software (like video editing software), the tools you use will determine the quality of your videos. Invest in professional tools, and your presentations will sweep your audience off their feet because theyâll be more polished.
Pro tip: If you don't have the time or bandwidth to find your way around an editing tool, simply sign up to InVideo for business and get presentations created using tailor-made templates and on-demand editing services. Sign up for a free demo here .
Tip #5 - Adopt Video Presentation Best Practices
Thereâs no need to reinvent the wheel when creating presentations . Most winning video presentations are based on common fundamental principles that work. Here are some you need to know:
1) Create impactful intros (and outros)
Your intro is the most important part of your presentation as it sets the tone for the rest of the talk. If you canât engage your audience with your intro, you probably wonât get another chance to engage them.
2) Keep it short, sharp, and sweet
No matter how engaging your video is, always remember itâs not a movie. The point is to keep your audience engaged enough to pass on your information, no more no less.
3) Be professional
Donât throw out your professional etiquette just because youâre on (or using) video. Maintain professionalism in your video presentations by, for example, using clean language and maintaining a good posture.
4) Use quality sound
Sound plays an integral part in presentations. Whether itâs music or speech, make sure itâs crisp, clear, and audible.
By following these (and other) video presentation best practices, success is inevitable. Remember, the presentation is not about you; itâs about your audience. So, ensure that your presentations provide a good user experience for your audience.
Make video presentations in minutes
With customizable InVideo templates
Looking for a great Video Presentation Template? Hereâs what you should consider
Templates are lifesavers. They help you create a decent presentation in a snap, even if you are a newbie.
Here are 3 simple questions to help you determine if a template is good:
1) Is it editable? â Are you able to change things like playback speed, effects, or text, so you produce something you like? Stay away from rigid templates that donât give you the freedom to create with ease.
2) Is it customizable? â Can you design brand-specific clips using your companyâs colors, fonts, and styling? Good templates give you wiggle room to include your brandâs specific needs.
3) Is it campaign-specific? â Different videos fit different scenarios. Ideally, you want templates tailored to your current campaign. That way, you have less tweaking to do because the templates are close to what you want.
Pro Tip: Get more tailor-made templates for your video presentations by signing up to InVideo for business . Sign up for a free demo here .
5 Awesome Video Presentation ideas to bring The House Down
Presentation is both an art and science. Get the balance right, and you have the audience eating out of the palm of your hand. Here are some ideas to help you do just that.
Idea #1 - Tickle them with humor
Humor is a powerful learning tool.
According to studies by Physiology Org humor leads to learning because of it:
- Attracts and sustains attention. - Relieves tension and produces a relaxed atmosphere. - Enhances participation. - Increases retention and motivation. - Bonds the student and the teacher.
However, to reap all these benefits, the humor must be appropriate and on-topic. So spice up your presentation with a joke or two. The result? Your audience will laugh and learn.
Idea #2 - Use Relevant Examples
Effective presenters use timely, powerful illustrations.
The word illustration comes from the Latin term âillustration,â which means illumination. So practical examples are like windows of your presentation. They let light in. They help people see or understand the material better.
Here are 5 questions to ask about your illustrations:
1. Are they relevant to the topic? 2. Are they suited to the audience? 3. Are they suited to the time limit? 4. Are they enlightening? 5. Are they well told?
Grab compelling examples from books, movies, TV shows, history, children, current events, and captivating real-life incidents. Use good illustrations ram your points home.
Idea #3 - Wield Questions like a Ninja
Questions are an integral part of learning.
Sharp questions aid learning. Plus, they keep listeners highly engaged.
Ask questions:
- At the beginning of your presentation to draw your audience in. - In the middle of the presentation to revive waning audience interest. - At the end of the talk, so the audience reflects on the material.
Also, allow the audience to ask questions. When your audience asks questions, they switch from passive spectators to active participants.
Idea #4 - Be Minimal
Have you ever sat through a presentation and felt:
- Dazed? - Confused? - Strained?
More than likely, the reason is the presenter drowned you in a blaze of inessential stuff. There was too much going on you couldnât cope with.
Minimalism is removing all unnecessary material, leaving only the bare minimum needed to put your points across. It means using just enough text, visuals, scenes, or slides to make the point and no more. A minimal presentation is clean and uncluttered.
Simple yet intriguing. Plain but profound. Basic but punchy.
Most importantly, it makes learning easy and enjoyable.
Idea #5 - Connect emotionally with a story
Stories are speakersâ most powerful weapons. Thatâs because stories play a dual purpose â
- Engage intellectually - Connect Emotionally
And an emotional connection is key to bringing the house down with your presentation. Why?
An emotional connection:
- Endears you to your audience - Makes your presentation memorable - Inspires your audience to take action
By using a relevant story in your video presentation, youâll ensure that your audience walks the entire journey with you from intro to outro.
6 PowerPoint Presentation tips to wow your audience
No business video guide is complete without PowerPoint, the staple software for business presentations.
Here are 6 golden rules to help you nail your next PowerPoint presentation and leave your audience crying for more:
1. Keep Things Simple
Legendary artist Leonardo da Vinci once said something profound:
"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication".
With the plethora of apps and templates at your disposal, you will be tempted to complicate things. Donât. Keep things simple.
Simple design. Simple colors. Simple story.
People get swamped and confused by complicated stuff but easily absorb and appreciate straightforward material.
2. Good visual contrast
What use is your blockbuster presentation if the audience canât see it?
You want people to enjoy your presentation, not endure it. If you use dark fonts on dark backgrounds or light fonts on light backgrounds, youâll strain your audienceâs eyes. Theyâll struggle to see your lovely slides.
Classic black-on-white color contrast does just fine. You can use colors like red, blue, or yellow for headings and images. If you donât like black and white, you can use other colors you prefer as long as the contrast of your combination is bold and strong.
3. Use a few words and animations
Itâs easy to go overboard with fancy animations and a gushing stream of words. Only use as many words as it takes to get your point across and no more.
Too many words cause the audience to read rather than listen. Remember, your slides are there to compliment your talk, not substitute it. Also, a lot of words will fill up many slides that wear your audience down.
Ruthlessly cut out senseless animations that donât add value to your talk.
4. Use excellent images
Images are to a presentation, what water is to fish. Without them, your presentation becomes bland. It lacks the needed fizz to keep your audience hooked. But only include relevant images.
Not only that. Above all, make sure all pictures are of high quality. Amateur-looking clip art causes the audience not to take you seriously.
Pro-tip: Get access to millions of stock assets and tailor-made templates with InVideo for business . Sign up for a free demo here .
5. Smooth and fast transitions
While PowerPoint transitions can make your presentation engaging, donât overdo them, especially the advanced ones. Not only do they quickly drain power on weaker machines, but they also distract the audience. Stick to simpler and faster transitions like wipe or slide.
6. Avoid overloading your slides
In presentations, less is more.
Having a lot going on your screen confuses and overwhelms listeners.
Cramming too much info into your slides is a big no-no. Clutter is your enemy. Strip your slides down to essential words and images. Your audience will love you for it and leave you with many takeaways.
Pro looking Video Presentations â No longer an option
With Industry 4.0 fast coming into its own, going digital is no longer an option for businesses and speakers.
And one of the most important communication mediums in the digital age is video. Thatâs why you canât afford to ignore video any more. Whether youâre speaking before a live audience or seeking to disseminate information to a global audience, video presentations are the way to go.
Need a great tool to create stunning video presentations? Then make sure to schedule a demo and see just how much you can do with InVideo for business.
Letâs create superb videos
How to Write a Video Script [+4 Free Templates]
Learn More about Video Monetization
- Video Script Formats
How To Write a Script for a Video
Lights, camera, action!
⊠oh, did you just forget your line? We’ve all been there. A slip of the tongue, stuttering, and rambling happen all the time when recording videos.
That’s why you need to write a script for your videos with all the important details, including your lines, actions, and visual instructions.
Writing a video script also can improve your on-screen confidence and help you better express your ideas. Youâll also have a clearer goal in mind and record your videos quicker â after all, you’ll have all your lines in front of you.
So, whether youâre a seasoned content creator looking to level up your video scripting or a business dipping your toes into video, let’s make this video scripting process easy for you.
In this guide:
- We’ll go over 4 different video script formats
- Provide you with a free video script template
- Provide you tips on how to write a video script
And, voila, youâll be all set to nail your next video project.
Ready to roll?
Video Script Formats (With Video Script Templates)
Let’s start with the basics:
Depending on the style of video youâre creating, you’ll have to choose a different video script format. Picking the right video format will help you set your goals and scenes for the video.
We’ll go over 4 different video script formats you can choose from, as well as provide a free video script template for each.
1. Scripted Sketch Video Script
When creating a video where youâre setting a scene that includes actions and dialogue, a scripted sketch video script might be perfect for you.
These video scripts are great for:
- Sketches: like TikTok and YouTube Shorts
- Short films: and long ones, too
- Series: like a new thriller show on Uscreen
⊠or any other situation where youâll need lines or a voice-over.
In the scripted sketch video script format, you’ll lay out all the details about the action happening in the scene and any lines that accompany it.
Letâs break this down for you.
If you make comedy sketches for kids , and you want to make a video about a spy who needs to save the princess from the bad guys, youâll need a script for that.
The first scene of your script might be the princess trapped in a tower, and the spy is trying to climb the tower with a ropeâŠbut the rope starts to tear!
Your video script would look something like this:
For each scene, you should write the action happening in the scene, along with all the lines for the voice-over. This helps establish a clear story.
You can also add extra columns for spoken lines, location, costumes, and props.
Want to try it out? We made it easy for you with our video script template â just add in the actions and voice-over.
2. Audio-Visual Video Script
Audio-visual scripts are perfect if you want to recordâŠ
- how-to videos
- day-in-the-life videos
- product tours
⊠or anything where a video needs to be guided by the audio.
But how does it work?
In this type of video script, youâll add all the details about the scene and the shot, such as any close-ups, camera movements, or actions. Having the shot interact with or emphasize a scene can add tension or drama, as well.
You’ll also want to add what your audience should be listening to. That can be background music , voice-overs, or sound effects.
Here’s an example:
You want to make a video on how to make blueberry muffins for your online learning platform . You’ll likely start with some calm music while showing a b-roll of your fresh-out-of-the-oven muffins before jumping to the recipe with a voice-over.
This is what it would look like in your video script template:
Writing all the details of the shot, including camera movements and sounds, helps you piece it all together at the end.
You can add as much detail as you want to the shot. That way, when itâs time to film, your camera crew â or yourself â will be ready with all the directions on-hand.
Ready to be done in one take? We made a video script template just for that.
3. Interview Video Script
The key to a good interview is starting with the questions. Asking the right questions in a logical order helps you create the fundamental building blocks of a story.
Thatâs when having a video script for your interview shines.
This type of video script guides you through the introduction, the questions, and the conclusion.
Hereâs how it works:
Start your script with an introduction, whether that is the topic, the person, or the goal for the interview.
Then itâs time for the questions. Hereâs where youâll spend most of your time choosing the right ones, and the order you will ask them.
It should look something like this:
Order your questions cohesively. Start with easier questions, so the interviewee can share about themselves and their background. Then move to the more specific questions.
When planning your questions for an interview video you should:
- Break the ice with warm-up questions.
- Avoid “yes” or “no” questions.
- Ask relevant questions.
- Be specific.
- Use follow-up questions
You can make your script even more detailed by adding space for your commentary and instructions for any visuals during the interview.
Try out our video script template below for your next video interview.
4. Storyboard Video Script
Youâve likely heard of a storyboard but have you ever tried making one?
Storyboards are great for making ideas clearer in a visual format, and it works for all skill levels of drawing â simple stick figures will do the trick. Whatâs most important is visually guiding the video through each scene.
And if youâre thinking that storyboards are only used for animated videos, just know that storyboard video scripts can also be great for:
- Making a video with a complicated video sequence
- Filming a sketch with special effects
- Working on a theater production
- Recording advertising videos
Weâll show you what this could look like.
Letâs say you usually create singing videos with your guitar for your platform but you want to start making more creative lyrical videos.
Your idea is to film yourself playing the guitar, while the lyrics flow from the inside of the guitar. The lyrics slowly start to turn into a shape before going to the next line, then the same thing would happen for the next verse.
Phew! That was complicated to explain with writing, but it can be easier to understand with a visual storyboard.
Storyboards are great for visualizing an action, but they also can be a great way to communicate your idea to anyone else working on the video with you.
Hereâs a storyboard video script template for you to start bringing your ideas to life.
- Start With a Brief
- Create a Rough Outline
- Write Your Script
- Include Visual and Audio Elements
- Trim and Revise
Now that you know the types of video script formats, you might be wondering how to write a script for your video.
Weâve got you covered.
Weâre going to guide you through every step of the process, and youâll be ready to write your next video script in no time.
Letâs jump right in.
1. Start With a Brief
The brief is an essential part of your script, this is where you’ll establish the goals, the purpose, and the plan of the video you’re creating.
The structure for the brief is up to you, and it can be very simple. But there are some questions you can answer in order to have a video script that’s effective:
- Who is your audience ?
- What is your reason for making this video?
- What do you want your audience to learn from this video?
- How do you want your audience to feel?
Now let’s get to the writing part.
2. Create a Rough Outline
After you write your brief, you should have a clear goal in mind for your project.
Just like a research project in school, starting with an outline will help you structure the video script.
The outline will be the skeleton of your script â this is where you’ll have the topics and subtopics of all the points you want to touch on. It will also make it easier for you to naturally connect each topic of the video.
Although this can be a rough outline, there are a couple of best practices to keep in mind to boost your audience engagement .
- Start with a hook to grab the viewers’ attention
- Follow up with a re-engagement to keep their attention
- Setup the story and lead towards the purpose of the video
- Bring back the re-engagement and introduce a pattern to keep the attention
- Reach the climax , the peak of your story, and your goal
- Wrap up with a call-to-action and tie any loose ends
You can pick and choose the options from this list based on the needs of your video. But, be sure to focus on the goals you set!
Once you’re happy with your script, you can now jump to the writing phase.
3. Write Your Script
Now for the fun part: writing your video script.
Start by building each section of your script. Even if you want to keep it simple, the important thing is to focus on your goal and what youâre going to say to achieve it.
You should write your video script:
- In a conversational tone as if you were speaking
- By being specific and detailed by adding lines, types of shots, or any visual elements
- And by keeping your audience in mind , and writing how you would want them to hear you speak to them
Writing your script in sections will allow you to touch on all the points you need to address to make sure you’re getting your point across.
You want to keep your viewer’s attention throughout, so you can reach the goal and purpose of your video and your call-to-action. And that’s where being detailed is key.
The call-to-action for your script can be anything, from subscribing to your platform to supporting a cause to continuing watching your videos.
4. Include Visual and Audio Elements
As we mentioned in the beginning, it’s important to add all the visual and audio elements of your video to your script so you can connect them together.
These include:
- Music and sound effects
- Sets and costumes
- B-rolls and shot styles
Each section of your script should have a matching visual and audio section. That way you’ll know which elements you’ll need to add when editing or during filming.
So if you’re making a tutorial video on how to sell your online course , you can add visual and audio elements to correspond to each shot, such as:Â
- Royalty-free music when talking through the introduction of your video
- Close-up shot of a content planner when going through the course planning process
- Screen recording of your membership site when talking about where you can sell a course
- Cash register sound effect when telling about starting to make sales
The key here is to be specific so you’ll know exactly what to do.
And now it’s time for the last part of your video script.
5. Trim and Revise
Once you complete all these steps, your video script is almost done.
Now it’s only the final touches.
At this point, you should read your video script out loud and see if there are any lines that need to be fixed or revised.
After that, you should figure out if your video has the desired length and whether you need to trim anything. You can time how long it takes to read the script out loud â this can reflect how long your finished video might be.
The last step is to rehearse using your video script a couple of times and get ready to record your video.
Wrapping This Up
All this to say, there are many benefits to using a video script and leveraging a video script template. They can jumpstart your creative process and, obviously, help you remember what you want to say.
Once you create your video, you can host them on Uscreen and use these templates to create online courses or your new series show.
Build, launch and manage your membership, all in one place.
Download the Templates
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Amir Shahzeidi
Amir is the Head of Demand Gen at Uscreen who's abnormally intrigued by all things marketing. He's also a composer and pianist who's rarely loved by his neighbors because all he ever plays is atonal music. But cats love him so it's fine!
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How to Write A Great Video Script (Free Templates)
Every exceptional marketing video starts with a brilliant video script. Your script is the compass that steers the entire video production journey, transforming your concepts into actual visuals. Although the possibility of video script writing might feel daunting, it’s a process that can be both manageable and rewarding.
Article Last Updated: March 05, 2024
What is a Video Script?
Elements of an effective video script, why do you need a video script, what are the video script formats, video script templates, how to craft a great video script, conclusion on writing a video script.
A blank page, an ambitious goal, and the pressure to create a winning video script. We’ve all been there – the moment when endless possibilities meet the need for precision. With countless ideas swirling around, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
So, where do you begin? How do you sift through many ideas and filter them to create a powerful script? Also, how can you channel this creative storm into a script that genuinely captivates? That’s where the power of Zight comes into play . Our innovative platform seamlessly integrates into your scriptwriting process, making it easier than ever to sift through ideas and transform them into compelling video content.
- Screenshots, recordings, and GIFS
- Annotate with arrows, lines, and blur
- Instantly share with a link
This guide will be useful if you find yourself staring at a blank page but also provide you with a valuable tool – our free video script templates – to help you confidently navigate this creative landscape. Let’s dive in!
Video scripts act as the roadmap for your video project, guiding visual and audio elements to create a cohesive and engaging experience. They ensure your message is clear, concise, and relevant to your target audience. A good video script can make all the difference between an engaging, informative video and one that falls flat.
A script outlines your video details, such as the characters, setting, on-screen visuals, dialogue or voice-over, music, and many more.
The main difference between a video script and any other written communication document is that its audience never reads a script. Therefore, a script is not a finished product but can be described as a blueprint for a finished product.
The elements of an effective script are crucial to creating compelling and engaging content . No matter the type of video, the key elements to consider when crafting your own video script include:
1. Content Idea
Your content idea is the fundamental concept or topic that your script revolves around. It’s the seed from which your entire script grows. Your choice of content idea significantly impacts various aspects of your script, including its scope, style, and tone.
For example, if you’re writing a video script for a software tutorial, your video content idea might be “How to Use XYZ Software Efficiently.” This idea guides what information you’ll include, how you’ll present it, and the overall theme of your script.
The purpose of your script for video defines its primary goal. It’s the driving force behind why you’re creating the video.
Your purpose could be to inform your audience about a new software feature, entertain them with a humorous skit related to your product, educate them on a complex topic, or persuade them to take a specific action, like subscribing to your software.
The purpose shapes the direction of your script, the style in which it’s written, and the platform where it will be shared.
3. Video Type
The type of video you’re creating determines the script’s structure and pacing. Different video types require distinct approaches. For instance, an explainer video aims to simplify a complex concept, so the script should follow a clear, step-by-step structure.
On the other hand, a testimonial video relies on authentic customer experiences so that the script may focus on real-life stories and emotions. The desired video type directs the content and flow of your script.
Your script’s style sets the overall tone and mood of your video. Whether you opt for a formal, professional style or a more casual and friendly approach, it must resonate with your target audience’s preferences. A formal style might be appropriate if your software targets a corporate audience.
However, a more casual and relatable style may work better if your software is for creative individuals. The chosen style influences your script’s language, dialogue, and rhythm.
The tone of your script plays a vital role in effectively communicating your message . It’s determined by factors like your audience’s demographics and psychographics, the chosen style, and the platform where the video will be shared .
For instance, a tutorial video aimed at professionals may adopt a serious and informative tone. In contrast, a promotional video for a youth-oriented product may employ a lively and enthusiastic tone. Adapting the tone appropriately ensures that your video connects with your viewers emotionally.
The pace of your video is intricately linked to the script’s nature and the platform it will be displayed on. A short social media script must convey information swiftly, often with concise dialogue and quick transitions.
In contrast, an in-depth educational video can have a more measured pace, allowing for detailed explanations and examples. The selected platform and the typical viewer’s attention span inform the ideal pacing of your script.
Although it might be tempting to skip video script writing and prefer “winging it,” it’s not the ideal way to write a good script. Some of the reasons you should plan your video by writing a video script include:
1. Clarity and Precision
A video script is the backbone for achieving clarity and precision in your content. It’s your opportunity to craft a carefully thought-out narrative, ensuring your message is concise and without ambiguity.
In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, where attention spans are short, a clear script with no unnecessary words can distinguish between engaging your audience and losing their interest.
2. Seamless Storytelling
Compelling storytelling is at the heart of many successful videos. A well-structured script provides the roadmap for weaving a compelling narrative that captivates viewers. It guides you in introducing characters, building tension, and delivering a satisfying resolution, resulting in a story that resonates with your audience.
3. Audience Connection
Tailoring your content to your audience is crucial. A script allows you to infuse your video with elements that resonate with your viewers, such as addressing their pain points or aspirations.
Consider Red Bull’s marketing videos , where high-energy visuals and dynamic script content resonate with their adventure-seeking audience.
4. Visual and Audio Harmony
Videos are a multimedia experience, incorporating visuals , audio elements, and sometimes even text. A script helps orchestrate the seamless integration of these elements, ensuring that they work together harmoniously to convey your message.
An explainer video script will ensure the visuals, animations, music, and sound effects complement the narrative, enhancing your audience’s overall experience. Luckily, Zight is the perfect way to easily harmonize the overlay sound effects, voice-overs, and music annotations onto your visuals .
5. Effective Call to Action (CTA)
A strategically placed CTA is essential if your video aims to persuade viewers to take specific actions, such as signing up for a service or purchasing. Your script guides the placement and wording of the CTA, ensuring it aligns with your video’s goals and prompts viewers to act.
For instance, from a product review video, a good script-based CTA can prompt your audience to visit your website and explore the product further.
6. Consistency and Quality
For those embarking on a series of videos or maintaining a consistent brand presence, a script serves as a tool for maintaining content quality and consistency . It provides a framework to adhere to your brand’s messaging, tone, and style, ensuring that every video aligns with your brand’s identity.
Suppose your company creates training videos . A consistent training video script style will ensure the learners have a familiar experience across all the modules.
Different video styles demand distinct script formats. Choosing the right video format will help you set your video’s goals and scenes. However, there is no YouTube video script template because YouTube videos are so diverse. Here’s an overview of the four most common formats:
1. The Audio Visual Script
Audio-visual video scripts are perfect for recording anything where the video needs to be guided by the audio, like in:
- Product tours
- How to videos
- User-generated video content
- A day-in-the-life videos
To know how to write a video script using this format, you should add all the details of the scene and the shot, like any close-ups, actions, or camera movements. You must also add what your audience will listen to, such as sound effects, voice-overs, or background music.
2. The Structure Script
A structured script video format focuses on the organization of flow and structure of a video. It outlines the primary scenes or sections, content, and transitions between them. However, it doesn’t get deep into the dialogue or specific visual elements but provides a high level of the video’s structure.
It doesn’t focus on the exact words to say but rather on how to arrange your ideas. It’s slightly less detailed than a script with precise words and actions.
It’s perfect for videos where the emphasis is on storytelling and visual storytelling , such as:
- Documentaries
- Case study video
- Educational video content
- Event recap video
- Narrative driven videos
3. The Interview Script
The interview format is tailored for videos that involve interviews or conversations. It includes questions for the interviewer and anticipated responses or talking points for the interviewee. It ensures that the conversation stays on track and covers the desired topics. Some perfect scenarios are:
- Panel discussions
- Interview videos
- Testimonial videos
- Q&A sessions
4. The Storyboard
A storyboard script combines sketches or illustrations with descriptions of what should happen in each scene. It’s often used in animation or highly visual videos to plan and visualize the sequence of events such as:
- Scenes that need precise visual coordination
- Animated videos
- Explainer videos
- Webinar/online event videos
- Personalized video
- Commercials
As promised, we’re providing free video script templates to make your scriptwriting process smoother. Video script templates are designed to make your scriptwriting process more efficient while maintaining a professional and visually appealing format.
We recommend Zight’s video templates for several reasons:
- With Zight’s Audio Visual Script template , you can effortlessly plan your video’s visual and auditory elements, resulting in a seamless viewer experience.
- Zight’s template for Structure Script format ensures that your content stays on track, making complex topics easier to understand.
- Zight’s Interview Script template streamlines the interview process and helps maintain a focused and productive conversation, ensuring that essential topics are covered effectively.
- Zight’s Storyboard template combines sketches or illustrations with scene descriptions, enabling you to plan the visual sequence effectively. It’s a powerful tool for visual storytelling, ensuring that each scene is well-coordinated and aligns with your video’s message.
You will find a free video script template that fits the contents of your script. Download these video scripts for free here.
Crafting a compelling video script involves several key steps that can make all the difference in engaging your audience and conveying your message. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions:
1. Create a Brief
The brief is the foundational step in creating a video script. This is where you’ll set the stage for your video project. Your brief should answer such critical questions:
- Who is your target audience ? Understanding your audience is essential for tailoring your message.
- What is your video’s purpose ? Is it to inform, entertain, educate, or persuade?
- What do you want your audience to learn or take away from the video ? Define your key message.
- How do you want your audience to feel ? Emotions are powerful in video content.
2. Write an Outline
Once you have a clear goal from your brief, create an outline for your script. This outline will serve as the backbone of your script, helping you structure your content effectively. Follow best practices:
- Start with a video hook to grab your viewers’ attention.
- Re-engage your audience to maintain their interest.
- Set up the story and lead toward the video’s purpose.
- Bring back the re-engagement and introduce a pattern to retain attention.
- Reach the climax , the peak of your story, and your goal.
- Wrap up with a call-to-action and tie up any loose ends.
3. Write a Video Script
Now, it’s time to write a video script. Focus on crafting engaging content and building each section, maintaining your goal and message clarity. Tips to enhance your script include:
- Write conversationally, as if you’re speaking directly to your audience.
- Be specific and detailed, adding lines, types of shots, or any visual elements where necessary.
- Always keep your target audience in mind and write in a way that resonates with them.
Script writing for video in sections allows you to address all the necessary points to convey your message effectively. Remember, detail is key, especially when you include a call-to-action at the end, which can vary from subscribing to supporting a cause.
4. Include Visual and Audio Elements
You can do this by:
- Enhancing Engagement : Visual and audio elements are the spices that add flavor to your script. Music and sound effects set the mood, while visuals like sets, costumes, and B-rolls add depth and context.
- Mapping Elements : Clearly define which visual and audio elements are required for each script section. This ensures a seamless integration during filming and editing.
- Visual Storytelling : Visuals should complement the narrative. For example, if you’re explaining a product’s features, use screen recordings or close-up shots to demonstrate visually.
5. Edit Your Script
Errors can sometimes evade detection during the writing video script phase. Once you’ve wrapped up your initial draft, set aside enough time for thorough edits and revisions.
To identify any dialogue that sounds awkward or transitions that appear abrupt, consider either reading your script aloud or enrolling someone to read it to you. If something strikes you as unnatural, it’s a good bet that it won’t resonate well in the final video.
Depending on the social media platform where you plan to showcase your video, shorter videos may deliver superior performance compared to longer ones.
In video creation, the script is your North Star, guiding your content from inception to screen. You’ve unlocked the art of crafting a great video script by now. Remember, every word you choose, and scene you describe contribute to the magic that unfolds on camera.
And here’s the extra magic trick – Zight. With its powerful features and intuitive interface, Zight takes your scriptwriting process to the next level. It streamlines collaboration , enhances creativity , and ensures your script is as polished as possible. With Zight, you’re crafting an unforgettable experience, not just writing a script.
Whether it’s a tutorial, an emotional journey, or a dynamic promotion, your script, supercharged by Zight, will shape the narrative that captivates your audience and leaves a lasting impression. Happy scriptwriting!
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How to Write a Video Script (Free Template + Guide)
Written by Adam Hayes
Last updated on 20th November 2023
Have you ever started a video project without having any sort of script in place?
If so, you know how quickly things can go awry. Lack of preparation can lead to delays, confused messaging, wasted work – and poor video content.
To ensure that your video is concise and engaging, it is essential to have a script.
But how do you write a video script?
Video scripting may seem like a daunting task, but the truth is that it doesn’t have to be complicated!
By following the right steps and relying on a few essential tips, anyone can master the art of scripting for their videos.
Read on to learn how to write a video script effectively and efficiently – we’ve even included a free video script template you to get started writing video scripts of your own.
With the right knowledge and techniques, you’ll be able to create content that captivates viewers in no time at all.
Let’s get started!
Article Contents
What is a video script?
A video script is the blueprint and foundation for your digital video. Itâs a chronological run-down of scenes, action and dialogue that you want to appear in your video.
At Wyzowl , we use a simple but powerful script document. It lets us set out the voiceover on the left and the action on screen on the right. This keeps both sections separate and easy to follow, side-by-side.
We’ve used this document to help us lay out all sorts of content – YouTube videos, marketing videos, how to videos and more. An effective video script has been the bedrock of all these!
Why write a video script?
There are a number of reasons why creating a video script is important:
It allows you to plan your messaging
Creating a video is an exciting process, and we know you have a LOT to say! Writing your own video script is a fantastic starting point – a first step that lets you whittle down thousands of competing ideas into one coherent structure.
You can start to plan exactly what you want to say in your video – and how you want to say it to best resonate with your target audience and get the maximum bang for your video marketing bucks!
It lets you estimate (and manage) video length
We work to the rule that a well-paced professional voiceover is read at around 130 words per minute. 130 words of voiceover generally equates to a minute-long voiceover track.
When you know this , it gives you a great way to manage the breadth of the content you want to cover, while considering the length of the video and how that will resonate with your audience.
It saves (sometimes MASSIVE amounts of) time
Another important aspect of writing a video script is the ability to make changes quickly and smoothly.
The problems you will encounter trying to change any footage while the video is in post-production can be timely and expensive.
However, any mistakes you make in the script, or scenes youâd like to change, can be actioned within seconds using the trusty backspace key.
Start with a few ideas and then fine tune from there.
It facilitates collaboration
When making a video for your business, a lot of different people may want to have their input.
When you write a script – and invite feedback on it through a collaborative tool like Google Docs – everyone can chip in and have their say on what to include and cut from the script.
This allows you to get buy-in across the organisation and harness the power of different voices and perspectives.
How to write a video script
- Plan your script
- Keep it short
- Make it eye-catching
- Make it fun
- Make it flow
- Call to action
1. Plan your script
As with anything creative, itâs imperative that you have a basic idea of what you are hoping to create. Failing to plan at the script stage could lead to unexpected costs further down the line.
If you come across any problems at the script stage, you can easily tweak and change and even start again.
However, if those changes need to be made once the video has been recorded, illustrated, animated or recorded by the voiceover artist, then you could incur further costs.
At Wyzowl, we ask our clients to complete a short brief form before we write their script – and we also fill out this form ourselves for our internal video projects. It asks just the right questions to unpack everything you need to think about when writing your script.
By defining the right information at the brief stage, the script process becomes a structural exercise where itâs just a case of laying out the points youâve identified in the most impactful way possible.
Your brief or plan document should cover:
- What the video is about.
- Who the audience is.
- Where the video will be used.
- What are the key messages to get across?
- What sort of visual style the video should follow (this will help you visualise the action-on-screen.)
- What sort of storytelling style the video should use (this will help define the tone and linguistics of your voiceover.)
Based on this information, you should have enough to put together a first draft of the script.
STUCK? TRY THIS SCRIPT WRITING FORMULA If youâre really struggling to know where to start, this simple formula might be helpful. Of course, no two videos are exactly the same, but this classic formula for an introductory explainer video helps us get started time after time. 1. Audience/Problem – Start by defining the pain point your product or service has been introduced to overcome. Massage and elaborate on this problem; what does it mean? How is it manifesting itself in your target audienceâs life? How is it holding them back? 2. Solution – Introduce your product or service and explain briefly how it solves this problem. 3. Benefits & USPs – Run through 3-4 of your main benefits and USPs that differentiate your product or service from the competition. 4. Call To Action (CTA) – Itâs impossible to get across everything about your product or service in 60 seconds, so at the end of the video, you really need to give your viewers a âsignpostâ to nudge them along to the next step in your sales journey. Make sure to include contact numbers, website addresses, email addresses and anything else you think might be relevant to ensure the viewer takes further action.
2. Keep it short
We all know that, when weâre passionate about something, talking about it is easy . And not just that – weâll talk about the things weâre interested in at length and in great detail.
That isnât always a good thing when it comes to writing a video script! Youâll quickly find yourself fighting a natural instinct to include every single benefit of your product or service.
Particularly for promotional video content like an explainer video or video ad , youâre battling against the attention span of your audience.
The below graph from Wistia illustrates the extent to which engagement tails off as a video continues to play. Thereâs a particularly sharp drop off after 2 minutes, and weâd certainly never recommend creating an explainer video thatâs longer than that, except in special circumstances, such as at an event where you have an audience that has opted in to watch your video in its entirety.
Videos can hold attention for longer if thereâs an opted in audience, or if your video content is informational or educational – documentary style content, or âhow toâ guides.
All weâd say is: look for areas of âfat.â Donât take your audienceâs attention for granted. Thereâs no set rule for the maximum length of a video. Think: âAs long as it needs to be and not a second longer.â
This can be a balancing act for aspiring YouTubers – it’s widely known that YouTube’s algorithm prefers longer, deeper content. After all, this keeps users on site longer which is great for YouTube’s ad revenue. However, you need to hold your audience attention. So if you’re writing a script for your YouTube video just remember that golden rule.
3. Make it eye-catching
There are tons of different ways to make a great video. But whether itâs a live action production or animation, one thing always rings true; it needs to catch the eye.
Not so long ago, provided your content added value, it didnât matter as much how it looked. Nowadays, everything needs to look beautiful . And you can be sure, if it isnât, the viewersâ perception of your brand will suffer.
This is more a consideration for the filming or design phases of your video, but it’s still something that needs to be kept in mind during the script writing stage. After all, you need to make sure your concept can actually be delivered in a way that looks slick and professional.
4. Make it fun
Injecting that little bit of fun into your video script can make all the difference.
Ultimately, you have to remember: people donât have to watch.
A boring, sterile video is highly likely to turn your audience off, even if you’re making B2B brand videos.
And letâs face it – there are plenty of other ways they could be spending their time. If you make your video fun, lively and engaging, you can help create the kind of impact that simply keeps them watching.
5. Make it flow
You donât want your video to sound like the voiceover is just reading a list or bullet points.
Read your video script aloud a number of times to ensure this doesnât happen. This process will allow you to identify any areas for improvement.
You may feel a bit embarrassed reading your script aloud, but itâs the best way to ensure your timings are correct and that it makes sense and runs smoothly.
If you notice that your script is robotic or repetitive in any way – head back to the drawing board and make those changes! You want to make sure
6. Call to action
The people who make it to the end of your video are precious. They are the people who are clearly interested in what you have to say – and itâs absolutely crucial to capitalise on that interest by signposting them in the right direction.
Thatâs why we always recommend ending your video with a clear call to action.
This can be anything from contacting you for further information to downloading your app, subscribing to your channel, leaving a comment – anything. The call to action appears at the end of the video and remains on screen for a few seconds for maximum effect.
You can also end your video with a vocal CTA to accompany your final image to hammer home the point you want to make.
Some popular CTAs include:
- Visit our website to find out more
- Contact us today for more information
- Get in touch to learn more
- Shop now at www.[website].com
Video script template
Here at Wyzowl, weâve created over 2,500 explainer videos using the above guidelines. Below you can see that the way we write our video scripts are done in two parts – voiceover and action on screen.
These parts are written in tandem, using the word count of the voiceover to estimate the length of the video, while you can set out all your creative ideas on the action on screen section.
All our video scripts are written in Google Docs – as this allows us to share our work and allow others to collaborate on it, whether thatâs colleagues or clients. All feedback is essential in creating the best video possible.
This document formalises the plan for the video and gives our illustrators and animators all the tools they need to go ahead and make this very simple document into an all-singing, all-dancing animated video.
3 Top tips for writing a video script
1. 130 words per minute.
Again, use this rule to measure and estimate the length of your video. 130 words is almost always equal to around 1 minute of voiceover. This is a great pace; the audience is able to follow and understand, and it allows plenty of room for movement on the screen to accompany the points made in the voiceover.
2. Get some help with your writingâŠ
Most people find writing a bit unfamiliar and scary. Luckily, there are tools out there to help.
Grammarly is a go-to tool for most writers. Itâs an online grammar checking, spell checking and plagiarism detection software to avoid unnecessary mistakes, while the Hemingway App highlights any errors and provides tips on how to tighten up your copy – this tool follows the principles used by writer Ernest Hemingway, who was known for his simple, direct prose.
There are also a number of free video script templates out there to help.
3. Gather inspiration
We may not all be artists, but we definitely all need inspiration! We find it helps to watch great examples to get inspired, and Dribbble is extremely useful when you are starting a video animation project . Itâs an invite-only design community which means only the best illustrators publish work on it, and it can help you discover creative ideas for illustrations that demonstrate the subject matter of your video.
Final thoughts
Mastering the art of writing video scripts is crucial for creating exceptional videos: a great script, ultimately, is a strong foundation for a great video.
In this post we’ve aimed to provide you with valuable tips and insights to enhance your script-writing skills.
Keep your videos simple, short and to the point in order to get your message across. Too much information and over complicated language can be a turn off, so getting your script right is perhaps the most important part of the video building process ( although our illustrators and animators would almost certainly disagree! )
Keep to the 130 words per minute rule to manage your video length, and use the various tools that are out there to help inspire and improve your work.
Here at Wyzowl, we understand the dynamics of creating top quality videos for your brand, so browse our blog for more helpful guides, or get in touch today if you want to tap into our expertise.
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A crucial part of video production is the storyboard, but... What is a storyboard? We're going to answer that for you and show you how to create one.
Looking for the right tracks for your film, explainer video, app or video game? Weâve compiled this guide to the best royalty free music sites in 2023.
We've identified the 8 essential factors to bear in mind when choosing a voice over artist for your video project.
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How to Write a Video Script That Will Keep People Watching
Brands are embracing video marketing, now, more than ever! And if youâre creating, or thinking about creating your first marketing video - thereâs no time like the present to start.
Whether you are planning on making how-to videos , a testimonial video , corporate movie, or a case study video , you should be aiming to create a video that is engaging - in order to capture the attention of your target audience.
However, you may not be sure where to begin when it comes to crafting a brand message that will stick with your viewers. Donât fret - weâre here to help.
Letâs start with the basics: making a video should always start with writing a good script âyes, just like a professional scriptwriter. A well-crafted script will make it easier for you to define:
- Content such as voiceover, dialogs, etc. that will be included in your company video
- The visual content that will be included in your video (list of actions, descriptions of each scene, etc.)
- Filming instructions (from what angle should each scene be filmed, what lighting should you use, etc.)
- Editing instructions (subtitles, sound design, special effects, etc.)
Having a solid content creation process will help you make sure your message is delivered in a clear, structured way. This in turn means that the result will be an engaging and solid video. Check out the blog article on how to make a professional video if you want to learn more.
Wondering what steps you should take to write a proper and efficient video script ? Keep reading to find out what the 9 tips success are.
Create a stunning video in minutes
Why you should write video scripts
Before we get started, letâs take a moment to go through the benefits of writing a video script.
A video script can be defined as a text-based storyboard and is a document that will allow you to:
- Spark your imagination : Feel free to add notes, draw sketches, and try things out. We recommend writing with good, old-fashioned, pen and paper and taking the time to gather all your best ideas.
- Ensure your message is delivered efficiently : Think of it as the guiding thread of your video. It will help you structure your message better.
- Showcase your brand identity : By including the keywords and other consistent brand messaging elements, you can ensure the final result will truly reflect your brandâs image and personality.
- Save time during editing : Your video script will also include all visual and audio elements that the final video should contain: such as illustrations, animations, motion graphics, and more. This means the editor will have plenty to work with.
- Make recording video interviews easier : Writing a script is especially helpful when preparing for video interviews. This allows you to share it with your interviewee ahead of recording to give them a chance to structure their thoughts better.
- Optimize the length of your video as well as your overall video budget : Lastly, know that writing a script will make it easier to avoid recording useless sequences you will not end up using. In turn, this will keep your budget in check too.
5 questions you should ask yourself before writing a script
Now that weâve convinced you of the benefits of writing a video script, you might be eager to get started. Hold on!
There are some extra steps you should take before working on the actual script to make sure your video resonates with your target audience. Answer the following questions to unlock the next level.
Who is your target audience?
As a marketer or comms professional, you already know that creating good content implies that you know your target audience well . Keep this in mind when making a video and writing its script too. Check out this article if you want to know more about personalized video marketing !
Does your video ad aim to target business owners, students, or working parents? Obviously the tone of voice, and look and feel of your video will differ depending on thisâwhich is why defining your target audience is key.
The more you get to know your audience, the easier it will be to write a script that fits their needs. So have a think⊠Whoâs your ideal customer here?
What does your target audience need?
Now that your target audience has been defined, it is time to step in their shoes.
The idea is to use empathy to identify their needs and provide them with solutions using your script.
đĄ PlayPlay Pro Tip
Using a notebook or a Google Doc file, you should start by making a list of all the issues your target audience might be facingârelating to your product or service of course. Once your list is ready, choose the biggest issue, and write a script that focuses on solving this issue.
Letâs say you sell menâs shoes. Your potential clients might be facing the following issues:
- They canât find menâs shoes under size 6
- They canât find brand footwear that is affordable
- They donât have time to shop for shoes
These 3 issues (size, price, and time) are unrelated, so we recommend picking one and building your script around it.
What message do you want to send?
Now that youâve got your target audience and their issues covered, itâs time to come up with the message you will be sending to them âthanks to your script.
What is your solution to their problem? What is your brand promise? What is your USP? Most importantly: what is the one thing about your brand that should be remembered?
If we stick to the menâs shoes example, a potential message could be: âWe are the only menâs shoe brand that focuses on small sizes.â
Remember, this will be your guiding light through the video-making process , starting with your script and all the way to the editing stage.
What emotions do you want to convey?
Youâve got a strong message now, so letâs move on to the emotions your script and your video should convey .
Whether it is joy, admiration, fear, pride, gratitude, anger, or hope, you should always define the psychological impact that your content should have.
We recommend going back and forth between positive and more negative emotions to make sure your audience keeps waiting.
Check out this video by Coca Cola , which starts by showing frustrating images before showing more positive images to make a lasting impact on viewers.
Unleash your creativity with PlayPlay's video creation platform. Now, you can easily create corporate videos that captivate audiences and boost your brand presence. Start showcasing your story in style!
What action should your audience perform after watching the video?
The last question you should ask yourself is essential as it aims to make your viewers take action once theyâre done watching. Again, make sure you figure out what your call to action will be before getting started with your script.
For example, you could encourage viewers to:
- Book an appointment online
- Sign up for your newsletter
- Visit your blog or your e-shop
- Download your app
- Get in touch via email or phone
đĄ Inspiration needed?
Before thinking about how to turn your idea in an impressive video, here are some ideas to get you even more inspired: Why not start into the year with a video slideshow remembering the highlights of the past year and teasing what you've planned this year? Otherwise, you could create buzzfeed videos that are so intriguing that your audience just can't stop watching them! Have you ever heard of video prospecting ? This way you can reach out to your prospects using a format allowing your message gets across: Information becomes easier to retain, explanations more convincing, and your brand storytelling more compelling.
Don't forget to repurpose video content ! Remember, you put a lot of effort into your video, now you need to get the most out of it. For example, you could write a blog post out of your video or split the videos into more digestible snippets to tease your longer video.
The key to a successful video script
After all this preliminary work, itâs finally time to get started. Here are the 9 rules you should follow to write a script that will result in an engaging video.
1. Structure your ideas in a logical way
Weâve mentioned earlier that the aim of a video script is getting a clearer vision. However, make sure your script goes through all of your ideas in a logical wayâalways start with an introduction, then dive into the heart of your content and finish with a solid conclusion.
A successful script should go through these 3 steps :
- Step 1: Introducing your audienceâs issue or need . You should tell your audience that you understand them at the very beginning of your video, so your script should start with that too.
- Step 2: Showing how your product or service solves that issue . This is when you should show your audience how you can help them. Showcase your expertise and what makes you different. You could absolutely rely on data here. Time to convince your target audience that your brand is the ultimate solution to their problems.
- Step 3: Finish with a call to action. Your script should end with a strong CTA, such as encouraging your viewers to sign up for your newsletter, download an ebook or share your video on social media.
This will help you deliver the right message at the right time.
There are two options when it comes to gathering your ideas in a structured way:
- Writing a very detailed script , which will prevent you from missing any detail.
- Putting together a list of bullet points , which will give you a good overview and will allow for more creativity from the editor.
Both options are valid and your choice will depend on your specific project, your objectives, and your own way of working. If you are working on a video interview, bullet points will probably be easier and can be shared with your interviewee.
2. Pay attention to your opening sequence
Did you know you only have 3 seconds to catch your viewerâs attention before they keep scrolling? This means you should give a lot of thought to the opening scene of your video.
Here are some of your options when it comes to making your audience want to keep watching:
- Start with an intriguing intro : In this Google commercial , for example, the brand makes viewers go past the first 3 seconds by showing the beginning of a Google search. Curiosity will make them keep watching!
- Ask viewers a question , such as âDid you know thatâŠâ
- Begin with a reaction sound , like âuh ohâŠâ
- State an interesting fact in a catchy way: â3. Thatâs how many seconds youâve got before a social media user keeps scrolling.â
Donât be afraid to try different things!
3. Perfect your storytelling
Remember your script should make viewers want to keep watching all while being easy to remember. This is where storytellingâthe easiest way to create memorable contentâcomes into play.
According to Jennifer Aaker , whoâs a Marketing Professor at Stanford University, stories are remembered up to 22 times more than facts alone: â When telling a story, you take the listener on a journey, moving them from one perspective to another. In this way, story is a powerful tool for engendering confidence in you and your vision. â Interesting, right?
Here are some storytelling tips to help you write a script that will be remembered:
- Rely on suspense . Even if your video aims to highlight all the benefits of your product or service, donât go into too much detail from the get-go. Surprise your audience and structure your video in a way that will keep them engaged.
- Trigger imagination . Keeping your audience interested can be as easy as relying on the fact that theyâve been told stories their whole life. Add references to books and movies as well as metaphors to transport and move them.
- Amplify emotions . The words you use will have an impact on your video. Donât just say a character is happy. Say they are thrilled or ecstatic!
- Personalize your message. The main character of your video should be able to identify with your video easily. Give them a name and use it, as your audience will relate more easily to what a specific person thinks, as opposed to a statement like âour customers think thatâŠâ
4. Use colloquial speech
When making a video targeted towards a broad audience, avoid using technical jargon at all costs as this will prevent your message from being easily understoodâand remembered.
While you shouldnât compromise on your messaging itself, make sure it follows these simple rules:
- Use simple words that anyone can understand . Avoid excessively long and complicated words.
- Explain any complex term if needed.
- Use the present tense to make your video easier to understand.
- Avoid being too wordy .
5. Keep it short
According to a Microsoft study , the average attention span of a human being is just 8 seconds. Yup, thatâs less than a goldfish. Oops.
Since your end goal is capturing and maintaining the attention of your target audience, make sure your script is as straightforward as possible.
Here are some tips to help you achieve that:
- Remember that each script should be tied to a single idea. You should focus on solving one specific issue with one single solution to make your message easier to remember. If you need to address several issues, just write a different script for each of them.
- Keep your sentences to 15 to 20 words long . By going above that limit, you might make your message harder to understand and remember.
- Check your script for unnecessary repetitions and wordy sentences . Repeating yourself is a no-go as it will both bore your audience, and make your video longer for no valid reason.
6. Think visually
Of course, a script is a written document, but it will ultimately become a visual piece of content.
In fact, did you know that 85% of Facebook videos are watched without sound? This also applies to any videos that are watched online.
Throughout your script, make sure to include information about the visual aspects of your video as well as its text.
Here is an example of a script for an animated video.
Sarah is always hungry as a wolf. Especially when it comes to ice cream. (Include an image of a wolf eating ice cream)
Actually, Sarah could eat ice cream all day. (Show Sarah eating different ice cream flavors throughout the day)
But things get complicated at night. (Show Sarah tossing and turning in bed crying because her tummy hurts)
But todayâs her lucky day. Hereâs a solution that will finally let her sleep soundly at night. (Sarah gets a glass of water and swallows a pill before sighing and smiling)
Aside from making your script easier to read, this will definitely make the editorâs job much easier !
7. End your video with a clear call to action
Congrats, your video script is almost finished! But wait⊠that next step is essential!
Remember that both your script and your video should end with a call to action that will be easy to understand. Of course, the specific call to action you will choose depends on your current marketing objective.
For example, you could tell your viewers to:
- Visit your website to increase traffic
- Download a white paper to highlight your expertise
- Book an appointment online to generate leads
- Buy your product to boost sales
- Join your customer loyalty program to increase conversion rate
The idea here is to guide viewers throughout the video and to remind them why you wanted them to watch your video.
8. Time yourself while reading your script out loud
Time to fine-tune your script! This also means optimizing the length of your future video.
Just use your phone to time yourself while reading your script out loud at a normal pace. To give you an idea, one minute of video usually equals 160 to 220 words , provided there are no pauses.
If your text is too long, just remove any word that isnât essential to get straight to the point.
9. Find someone to proofread your script
Even the best script writers and directors work with a team, so why not do the same?
Before you start shooting and editing your video, we recommend showing its script to someone who has not been working on it.
The benefits of doing so are as follow:
- Making sure that your script is easy to understand
- Correcting any mistakes
- Ensuring that your messaging and tone of voice really fit your company objectives.
Over to you
And itâs a wrap! You now know everything there is to know about writing the perfect video script to produce high-quality video content. Test PlayPlay , the video creation platform for businesses, to wow your audience with your awesome videos!
Ready, steady, write
Start creating videos
That make information easy to retain, explanations convincing, and brand storytelling compelling.
By Marcus Twigg
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Easily scale your video production in 120+ languages.
Oh, the beautiful world of presentations. From 90s PowerPoints and nifty animated Prezi decks, weâve now reached a point where a perfectly designed presentation is a must. Perfectly designed video presentation, to be exact.
You get it, but youâre not a video pro, and you donât have time (and nerves) to learn yet another video editing tool. đ«
No worries!
Making video presentations doesn't require a fancy video editing software, or years of video editing experience.
All you need to make great video presentations is an online video maker.
Keep reading to learn how to make a video presentation with an AI presenter and a text-to-speech voice over , all using one tool.
Or watch our short video tutorial.
Video presentations vs. PowerPoint slides: Which one is better?
A PowerPoint presentation is a staple in any professional's arsenal of tools, but there are so many ways to make better presentations in 2022.
One such method is a video presentation.
Sure, you can convert a Google Slides or PowerPoint presentation into a video file right in the tool, but the results aren't that different from a normal PowerPoint. What you get is basically a video slideshow, possibly with a video recording of the speaker.
Here's why you should create a video presentation instead:
- video helps people remember information better because it's presented both through visuals and audio
- people retain 95% of the information presented through video vs only 10% through text
Besides, creating professional-looking videos isn't difficult.
You won't need a camera, a microphone or any prior knowledge of video editing.
All you need to make a video presentation is some text and a Synthesia account.
How to create video presentations with AI
You might have seen a few PowerPoint to video converters online, which transform a PowerPoint presentation format into a video file.
Some converters, like the one by Synthesia, go beyond that by allowing you to add an AI presenter and text-to-speech narration to make it more engaging.
If you're in a time crunch or don't want to spend too much effort into making video presentations, this is a good option.
In fact, we have a detailed guide on using the PowerPoint converter.
But if you want to create stunning video presentations, we advise to put in a little more effort.
Trust us, it pays off.
We're using a video presentation maker called Synthesia, because it allows you to create an entire video presentation in one browser window.
Here's how đ
Step 1: Choose a video presentation template
Every eye-catching video presentation starts with a professionally-designed template.
That is especially true if you don't have experience using an online video maker or don't have an eye for design.
A template will also give your video presentation both a visual and informational structure with ready-made scenes. That will help keep your audience engaged and make the presentation easy to follow.
Browse through Synthesia's collection of 55+ video presentation templates to find one that suits your presentation topic and your target audience.
To make a video from a template, click on ' Templates' on the left-hand side, choose one and select 'Create video'.
Step 2: Write a video script
Before you dive into adjusting the video presentation template, make sure you have everything you want to say in a concise video script.
This will make the entire video presentation-making process faster and easier.
Combine individual video scenes with text, and make sure to include no more than 3-4 sentences per scene to make the video easy to understand.
See our video lesson on chunking information:
Step 3: Paste in your text
Take your written script and paste it into the video presentation maker to all the slides.
Because Synthesia will automatically generate a video narration from your text using its text-to-speech engine.
To create a video narration in Synthesia, you simply need to paste in your video script slide by slide into the script box and choose the voice you like.
Step 4: Add visual content
While the video presentation template gives a good visual outline, adding a personal touch with visuals will transform the video presentation into a more unique piece of content.
When you create video presentations in Synthesia, you can choose from 3 types of visuals:
1. Stock video and images
Photo and video footage is probably the most common way of visualizing information.
To find images or videos for your video presentation, go to 'Media' on top of the video canvas.
2. Text on screen
Choose the key points and add them as text in your video presentation the same way you would in you PowerPoint presentation.
To add text in Synthesia, click on ' Text ' and choose between Title , Subtitle , or Body Text .
Go beyond simple bullet points, and add animation effects to your text to make it stand out. Learn how to do that here:
3. Virtual presenters
Apart from the text-to-speech narration, Synthesia will generate one more element from text - a virtual video presenter.
Using a talking head in a video presentation is a great way to keep your audience engaged, and you won't have to record yourself presenting, which sounds like a win-win to us.
To add an AI avatar to your video presentation, click 'Avatar ' on the top of the video canvas and choose one you like.
Step 5: Generate video presentation
Your video presentation is now ready!
Once you're happy with the outcome, generate the video presentation.
Here you can edit the Title and Description of the video and include captions if needed.
Share it with the world by copying the link, embedding it on your website, or uploading it to YouTube.
Or use it during a live presentation, if you don't like public speaking. (Relatable đđ»ââïž)
3 inspiring video presentation examples
When you want to learn how to make a video presentation, looking at already existing examples is a good way to get inspired.
Here are a few of our favorite examples of video presentations:
1. Onboarding video presentation
This video presentation was created as part on an employee onboarding process, as focuses on outlining the company policies and procedures.
The entire presentation was made in Synthesia, and features an AI avatar as the narrator.
Why we like it:
- The design and visual content is clean & professional
- There is no background music to deter the audience's attention
- The information is presented in a clear and concise manner
2. Economic and market strategy video presentation
This video presentation is used for internal communications within a company, and we love the adoption of a video format instead of Google Slides or a PowerPoint presentation.
This video presentation is the perfect example of how using video instead of text or static slides can make the information more engaging for the audience.
3. Sustainability initiatives video presentation
Making a live presentation for 100s of employees can be difficult to get right, which is why this video presentation hits the mark.
It does a good job of presenting all the necessary information while keeping the pace and visual assets engaging.
- The video clips in the background fit the topic of the video perfectly
- The video editing and animation times well with the script
- The color scheme is very fitting for the topic of the video
No more excuses â start creating video presentations now
Now that you know how easy it is to make video presentations, you only have 2 options:
You can either create a free AI video  or browse our templates for video presentations to get started. đ
Frequently asked questions
How can i create a video presentation for free.
To make video presentations for free, you can try Synthesia's free AI video maker . Simply choose a template, type your script in any popular languages, and receive your video in minutes.
What app do you use to make a video presentation?
To make video presentations, you can use a few different apps, like:
- Synthesia, an AI video presentation maker
- Video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro
- PowerPoint or Google Slides
Can you turn a slide presentation into a video?
You can convert your PowerPoint slides into video presentations in 2 different ways :
- Save your video presentations as a video file
- Use a PowerPoint to video converter like Synthesia
How do I make a video presentation with pictures?
To add pictures or video footage to your video presentation in Synthesia, simply click on 'Media' on top of the video editor and either browser the stock media or upload your own assets. That's it!
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Best Tips to Write a Script for a Video Presentation
German Viera is an engineer transformed into an entrepreneur. Currently focusing on business growth, product improvements, design, marketing and of course support of our valued customers for SlideModel.com
Video Content , Video Marketing
Video scripting is important when it comes to making a video presentation. No matter the subject matter, video script holds importance in every case. Since your film’s layout, structure, and story are all defined by a video script.
Having a video script means you have got a clear path to follow now and an overview of how everything will unfold. At the same time, being clear on the primary message and story you want to tell, you are less likely to face any alterations later through producing the video.
Writing a video script is not that challenging if you follow the essential steps that allow for some flexibility. So it is acceptable if you don’t get it right the first time. The idea is to keep revising until you’ve nailed it. On the other hand, we would recommend that you check for presentation themes to give yourself a head start as having a pattern to start from would be more beneficial than having to start from scratch.
Hence, to make help you create the best possible video script, below are the basic steps to properly create a video script:
Begin with a brief:
Doing so allows you and your team to document the most pressing project concerns efficiently, ensuring that everyone participating in the video production is on the same page.
As if any of your teammates disagrees or tries to make any changes all of a sudden, you can simply refer to the brief you have made. It details the project plan and goals that your team has devised together. After that, you can proceed.
Remember that a brief doesn’t have to follow a certain formula. Instead, it should just address the few crucial questions, which are as follows:
- What is the purpose of the video?
- Who is the intended audience?
- What is the subject of our video?
- What are the most important points to remember from the video?
- What is our call to action? After they have completed watching the movie, what do we want them to do?
You can look up Google Docs when making a brief. There, you can simply create a brief that will act as a living that you can edit over time and through which you can collaborate with your team.
Start brainstorming:
Brainstorming is always a good idea. Hence, first of all, write your main point at the top of the page. This maintains it in the forefront of your mind, preventing you from deviating or becoming distracted by a bright new thought. Then take the following steps:
Take out 15 minutes to think and write down every thought that comes to mind on the paper, whether it is in your head or in the heads of your teammates; just jot it down on one piece of paper.
Choose the ones that best suit your video’s goals while also appealing to your targeted audience. Then, in rough order, flesh out the few thoughts you have. Remember your goal is to identify the best communicator of your core message.
As a result, you must have one concept by the end of this brainstorming and idea exploration session.
Use your summary to write the outline:
It is now time to begin writing your video script after you have chosen a theme and produced a brief. Before getting into the whole screenplay, we recommend you make an outline to split your video down into subtopics and figure out how your dialogues will evolve.
In a video script, you should integrate pauses and verbal explanations into your speech patterns that you wouldn’t have on the paper. Whether your video script is based on a blog post or not, you must make a well structured outline. Think about the specific best practices for the subject you are going to address in your video.
For instance, if your video’s subject is “How to Start a Business”, then you may structure your script around the various steps that a prospective entrepreneur must do when starting a business, such as:
- Investigate the market.
- Make a research report.
- Make a development budget.
- Meet with investors who could be interested.
- Create a marketing strategy for your business.
- Create a marketing strategy .
- Determine the location of your office.
Begin your script by introducing yourself and the topic:
Even while videos are the preferred medium for many individuals who are willing to learn something new, like written content, they must hook their viewers in the initial few seconds. Since you have much competition everywhere, either on the internet or the corporate world and you would definitely not want your viewers to click away as not being able to engage effectively with your video.
Hence, we would suggest you utilize the first few lines of a video screenplay to introduce the narrator and what the viewer will learn in the video. Doing so will help you hook your audience while effectively pursuing them.
Writing your script from section to section:
It’s important to keep in mind that the video script’s sole aim is to be functional so try not to make it fancy. Remember, a good screenplay allows people on the camera to communicate their message while sounding genuine. Hence, consider the following while writing your video script:
Write in a conversational tone:
Producing a video script for a business related presentation is not the same as writing a play’s script. You must be capable enough to write the video script in the manner in which you communicate the video subject easily. Hence, we would suggest you keep sentences short and simple; if at all feasible, avoid complicated sentences and make them conversational. So that audience can get involved in it easily.
Must cover everything:
A script is more than just dialogue. If you think your narrative or your theme requires several shots, scenes, or characters, then you can add as that would make your video more appealing. If not, you can just use visuals to portray what you have to say, as business presentations can be dull with only complex numbers and graphs.
Essentially, you want the screenplay to be detailed enough that you could pass it off to someone else to film, and they would be able to follow it.
Never lose sight of your audience and the platform:
It would be best if you never overlooked your targeted audience and the platform you chose to deliver your video through. For example, are you targeting young teenagers, middle-aged professionals, or senior retirees? Is your video going to be shared on Youtube, Instagram, YouTube, or your own website? Or if you are presenting in front of your committee in a professional meeting? Please ensure you have all this in your mind while writing your script to avoid losing track of your objective.
Every word must be scripted:
It’s fair to believe that you can scribble down the essential elements for a script, especially if you’re familiar with the subject matter. However, at times through this, it is difficult to express your point as concisely and simply as possible. Which you should strive for in any video you are willing to make in order to avoid the need for frequent redos.
As a result, we recommend scripting every single word. Doing so would keep you organized while recording and will save you time later when making a video .
Be concise:
Shorter films are more interesting than longer ones, particularly when it comes to marketing. Hence, you’ll need a simple script to make a short, efficient video. It’s better if it is concise to a single page; if not, then two pages are more than enough. Try not to exceed more. Moreover, it is also worth undertaking 2 or 3 rounds of edits dedicated entirely to removing all unneeded material from your content. Also, it would be beneficial if you read it aloud to hear if there are any opportunities to make it more conversational and concise. Once you’re done with it, take some time out to do a brief run through of your work to avoid any mistakes.
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Create Video Presentations and Capture Your Audienceâs Full Attention
Slide presentations are like email and elephant lampsâeveryone says they hate them but theyâre not going away. Still, you can do better. Like creating a video presentation instead. Itâs not that much more work, and youâll wind up with something far more interesting and engaging.
What is a video presentation?
A video presentation typically refers to a hybrid media experience that combines the visual elements of a slide presentation (like the kind youâd make in Powerpoint, Keynote, or Prezi) with components like voice narration, music, and video clips. The ideal end result is a dynamic, shareable video that clearly lays out a pitch or lesson without you actually having to be there to present it.
TL;DR: Itâs a Powerpoint presentation, but way better.
Different types of video presentations
The end goal of your video presentation will likely dictate what form it takes. Here are some of the more common types:
- Educational presentations. Video presentations are a great way to teach skills or concepts. The slideshow element gives you the flexibility to hold the viewerâs hand as you move from one step to another, and you can even intersperse clips demonstrating any tricky or hard-to-explain parts.
- Sales presentations. Letâs say you have a product or service to sell. (Congrats!) In an ideal world where everyone had unlimited time, you could travel the globe singing its praises. In reality, you probably have a life that prevents you from spending all your time doing that. The solution? Record one kickass presentation and post or distribute it.
- Investor pitches. In a similar vein as the sales presentation, putting your pitch to investors in video form gives you the potential to reach way more possible investors than you would going from conference room to conference room.
- Promotional videos. Since promotional videos tend to be for a larger audience than, say, investor pitches, they skew more toward the video end of the spectrum rather than the slideshow end. Nevertheless, a demo or some helpful graphics can be a welcome alternative to the same old commercial or ad. No matter how powerful the presentation software, though, youâll still have to channel your own inner Billy Mays.
- Onboarding videos. Save the spiel and put all the information for hirees together in one super snazzy video presentation. Especially as more people work remotely, a quality video can make newbies feel like part of the team. While this probably shouldnât replace quality one-on-one training, it can help you save a bit of time going over the basics.
- Informational videos. A well-delivered lecture is all well and good, but amping up its impact with some visual aids can take it to the next level and turn a dry recitation of facts into an actually engaging video.
Why make a video presentation?
Making a video presentation may seem a bit extra compared to making a Powerpoint. Assembling those additional components is worth it, though, if not for the added benefits, then for the impression youâll make on your audience.
- Video presentations can accommodate multiple learning styles. People retain information in different ways, so the more methods you can find to convey information in your presentation, the more likely your audience is to hold on to your message. You can give people assignments for tactile learners, graphics for the visual learners, etc.
- Video presentations offer more avenues to engage your audience. Raise your hand if youâve ever drifted off while scrolling through a slide presentation. To be fair, not all Powerpoints are interminable slogs through text-heavy slides created by people who have no idea how to make a presentationâŠbut a lot of them are. And even for the ones that arenât, the added dynamism theyâd get from the option of adding some music or voice work in a video presentation would still make them more enjoyable for their audience.
- Video presentations are convenient. Instead of juggling calendars and stressing about scheduling your pitch, you can just send a link and have everyone watch your presentation when they actually want to or have time to. Youâll wonder why you ever set up meetings to begin with.
- Video presentations are efficient. You most likely canât fit all the information you need to on a slide (though people definitely try). By the same token, unless youâre speed-reading, you face a similar issue with voiceover. But when the two join forces, the balance is just right.
How to create a video presentation with Descript
The easiest way to create a high quality presentation with Descript is to create a video in your slideshow creator of choice and then import it into Descript for some polish. This step-by-step guide will use a presentation made in Prezi as an example.
- Create your slide presentation in Prezi, then record it at the pace you want using Descriptâs built-in screen recorder . Or Preziâsâthis is a feature on most comparable platforms nowadays.
- If you recorded in Prezi, download the presentation; this will turn your slides into a video. If you recorded in Descript, skip to step 5.
- Next, open Descript (i.e. our video editor ) and start a new project if you donât already have one.
- You can add your video to the timeline either with a simple drag and drop from your Finder or by clicking âAdd newâŠâ in the sidebar and choosing the video file from there.
- Once your slideshow is in your timeline, you can make the voiceover part of your presentation by playing the video in the timeline and recording yourself reading your script as the video plays. You can then use Descriptâs audio editing feature to take out any dead spots and filler words (the âlikesâ and âumsâ) to generally tighten up the audio, making you sound super professional.
- Add your voiceover to the timeline, again by dragging and dropping or by selecting from the âAdd Newâ menu.
- Finally, itâs time to join the video and audio by matching your voiceover to the presentation. One easy way to do this is to match up the start of the audio waveform with the start of the video. Rather than working with one big piece of audio, you can break your audio up into chunks to make it easier to move pieces around to match the video.
- Once youâve matched up your elements, you can export your project and publish it to your platform of choice. Mazel tovâyou just made a video presentation.
You can also add captions and titles, pull in pictures or video overlays, and play around with other effects. But first, try starting simple. Once you get the hang of it, there are all kinds of modifications you can make that will elevate your slideshow into a full-on event.
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Script to Video AI
Instantly create a social-ready video from a script with AI. Turn written content into social-ready video with B-roll, images, background music, and subtitlesâfree to start.
Social-ready videos created from scripts in an instant
Focus more on creating and less on getting the perfect takes. Kapwingâs Script to Video Generator takes any video script and creates a social-ready video summary for you. Win back hours of time spent sourcing B-roll footage or finding the âright anglesâ with the best lighting. Now, you donât need to record anything yourself anymore.
Turn video scripts into short videos filled with engaging video clips, images, background music, and subtitles.
How to Create Videos from a Script
Start a new project in Kapwing and click on the lightbulb icon in the upper left-hand corner of the editor. Then, open âScript to Video.âÂ
Copy and paste your video script in the text box. We recommend using a script thatâs at least 500 characters to get the best results. Pick which language and type of voice you want for the voice narration and the style for the subtitles.
Confirm the video size and format you want (1:1, 9:16, 16:9, etc). Once ready, hit âGenerate Video from Script,â to create your video and make any additional edits needed. Save and download a video file or the unique link to your video.
Level up your video creation process with Script to Video AI
From written content to video in seconds.
Write out a video script, and get a fully fleshed out professional video back. Filled in with generated video clips, images, and background music, your video created from a script is social media ready.
Get to your final video 10x faster
With over 100+ video editing tools, you're equipped with everything you need to create engaging videos in as little as a few minutes. Take your video creation process to the next level by using the automatic video editor to remove silences from your video automatically, or the voiceover generator to add realistic, AI voices to narrate your videos. Now's the time to win back hours of time spent recording
Access a full creative suite with built-in AI tools
Kapwing AI is a full-fledged creative suite with AI-powered video editing tools for every type of edit. Kapwing's Smart B-Roll Generator automatically fills in your video with contextual images to make your videos more engaging. Perfect for promo videos or explainer videos, Kapwing's AI Video Generator helps you always start with something. Conquer any creative mind block you find yourself struggling with.
What's different about Kapwing?
Kapwing is free to use for teams of any size. We also offer paid plans with additional features, storage, and support.
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Video script templates are the busy video maker's secret weapon. Biteable's online video-making software offers hundreds of video templates to jump-start your script-writing creativity. Fully customizable. One-click editing. Ready-made content. (24+ million clips, images, animations, music tracks). Free 7-day trial.
Writing an outline of your script on notecards or using a card for each scene can help you get a sense of where your script may need some work. 7. Plan to repurpose your video content. While a great final video is your ultimate goal, you'll also want to plan for the future as you write your script.
Identify your audience. A key step in video script writing doesn't involve a pen, paper, or a video camera. Identifying the target audience for the video being developed is an all-important first step. Your choices around language, humor and tone will vary depending on the audience identified for the video. Creating a script that is engaging ...
Don't try to pack every detail into a single video." To create an outline in Jasper, you'll choose the "Video Script Outline" option from the Templates section. Then, include your video title or topic as well as the tone of voice you'd like for the video. Jasper will generate multiple outputs for you to choose from.
Download the free video script templates for creators. The video script templates for creators were carefully crafted to help you ask all the right questions and come up with just the right answers. Download the free video script example templates, and use them to make your video projects come to life. Download the free video script template.
Step 1: On the File menu, select Save to make sure you have saved all your recent work in PowerPoint presentation format (.pptx). Step 2: On the File menu, select Save As. Step 3: Select the folder location where you want to store your PowerPoint Show file. Step 4: In the Save as type box, choose PowerPoint Show (*.ppsx).
How to write a video script: 8 easy steps. Clarify your goals. Identify your target audience. Present a problem and provide a solution. Stay on message. Tell a story. Keep it concise. Include a call to action. Edit your script.
To create a presentation video in Descript: Hit New project. Import any media (images, infographics, short video clips, GIFs, or sounds) you want to include in your presentation. Drop your visuals into the script and edit them into a sequence, or work scene by scene by adding a / at the beginning of each slide.
Use Video Script Templates. To put all the information from the previous steps into practice and help you get started with your script, we've created a video script template based on one of our ready-made video stories. First, let's watch the video, and then we'll have a closer look at the script. Use Preset.
We're going to guide you through every step of the process, and you'll be ready to write your next video script in no time. Let's jump right in. 1. Start With a Brief. The brief is an essential part of your script, this is where you'll establish the goals, the purpose, and the plan of the video you're creating.
To know how to write a video script using this format, you should add all the details of the scene and the shot, like any close-ups, actions, or camera movements. You must also add what your audience will listen to, such as sound effects, voice-overs, or background music. 2. The Structure Script.
A video presentation is a presentation that can be shared and viewed as a video. Technically, for a presentation to be a video presentation, it must be an MP4 or MOV file type. A video presentation can be shared online on YouTube, Vimeo and other social media platforms. The best part of a video presentation with audio is that you can share it ...
If you make your video fun, lively and engaging, you can help create the kind of impact that simply keeps them watching. 5. Make it flow. You don't want your video to sound like the voiceover is just reading a list or bullet points. Read your video script aloud a number of times to ensure this doesn't happen.
Step 1: Introducing your audience's issue or need. You should tell your audience that you understand them at the very beginning of your video, so your script should start with that too. Step 2: Showing how your product or service solves that issue. This is when you should show your audience how you can help them.
1. Identify Your Audience. This is the best starting point for any script or presentation. Identify and define your audience. Once you have a clear understanding of the people you are going to be presenting to, and what they are looking for from you, the script you produce accordingly will be a thousand times more impactful than a general and ...
How to create an engaging video presentation. Step 1. Create video slides or record your screen and webcam. To import your own presentation videos, photos, and audio, click on the import media button in the your media tab on the toolbar to browse your computer files, or connect your OneDrive.
Choose the key points and add them as text in your video presentation the same way you would in you PowerPoint presentation. To add text in Synthesia, click on ' Text ' and choose between Title, Subtitle, or Body Text. Tip đĄ. Go beyond simple bullet points, and add animation effects to your text to make it stand out.
Video scripting is important when it comes to making a video presentation. No matter the subject matter, video script holds importance in every case. Since your film's layout, structure, and story are all defined by a video script. Having a video script means you have got a clear path to follow now and an overview [âŠ]
If you recorded in Descript, skip to step 5. Next, open Descript (i.e. our video editor) and start a new project if you don't already have one. You can add your video to the timeline either with a simple drag and drop from your Finder or by clicking "Add newâŠ" in the sidebar and choosing the video file from there.
1. Why academics, scientists, and educators need to write a presentation script and practice their presentations. 2. Myths about presentation scripts and practicing your presentations. 3. Why you should script and practice even if you're good at public speaking. 4. How to write a presentation script and how to practice your presentation. 5.
How to Make a Video Presentation. Open a new project with a blank canvas. Choose the size you want your video presentation to be; apply preset aspect ratios 9:16, 4:5, 1:1, and vice versa. Open the "Record" tab in the left-hand side and choose your recording settings to start recording. Or, browse the stock footage library to create a ...
Open Script to Video. Start a new project in Kapwing and click on the lightbulb icon in the upper left-hand corner of the editor. Then, open "Script to Video.". Paste your video script. Copy and paste your video script in the text box. We recommend using a script that's at least 500 characters to get the best results.
The Genesis of GitHub Copilot . Burke began the presentation by thanking the hosts and expressing enthusiasm for the transformative potential of GitHub Copilot.GitHub Copilot is the original and most widely used AI tool in the developer community, and with AI becoming an integral part of the development process, its ability to significantly increase productivity and happiness among developers ...