Just like mentioned in the last post, very few are successful by looking into a camera and becoming Youtube famous. It takes careful and deliberate work with some planning. After deciding what topic to cover (and there should be a focus), the next step is writing a script. Both stories and documentaries require writing down what words will be used to convey a message. Despite what might be believed, even "reality shows" are carefully crafted for maximum entertainment possibility. At the least there should be an outline to shape what goes into a video.
There might be a question of why a script needs to be written instead of staring into a camera and saying what is on your mind. It is assumed all this will be edited, cut down, clips added, and all will be fine. For a daily life "vlog" this might be acceptable, but it is also time consuming. Putting down what will be said saves a lot of time in the post-production stage. Why go through hours of tape when less can mean more time for other final touches? Having pre-made scripts can also sharpen the message by thinking about what is really essential. It smooths the edges, streamlines the presentation, and shapes into a story structure.
Start by making an outline of the topic or write down some questions that will be answered. At this point you are trying to create a focus. What exactly do you want to talk about? How are you going to present the information on video to the desired audience? How much do you actually know or might need to research some more? It is better to have everything mapped out rather than discover serious problems later. Casual video making is the only exception to this step. A serious Youtuber will not allow chance and hope for the best.
There are at least four parts to a good video script, similar to the five part paragraph taught in school when writing papers:
The Hook: This is where you attract attention and get people watching. It might start with bringing up a question needing an answer. There might be a shocking or startling revelation about you or your topic. A joke gets laughs that make a positive connection. Be sure the hook is equal to the whole presentation or the audience might feel cheated.
The Introduction: Some Youtubers have one and others don't, but if chosen it acts as a type of branding. Use it to tell your name, the company affiliation, the general channel topic, and any call to action such as subscribe. Most importantly is to keep it short. Even a majority of modern television shows barely use this anymore.
Body: Here is where the meat of the video comes in, of course. Take the outline or list of questions and expand on them. Keep the words at a minimum, saying only what is needed to avoid boring the viewers with rambling. Don't forget this is a visual medium. Storyboard what will be seen and edited in with or without using pictures. Think of it as a play with stage directions; something like exists and entrances, and scene changes.
Finale: This is the wrap up. Give final thoughts. Remind the viewers of the main points. Have a "call to action" inviting the audience to do something: subscribe, buy, comment below, etc. For an ongoing series, tease the next video by explaining what to expect.
Once finished, put the words in a teleprompter format to read off into the camera. Maintain a consistent voice throughout the whole script. A serious topic might require maturity, but that is not a requirement. The script, however, should not sound serious one half and filled with jokes during other parts. Remain true to the created persona. Whatever choices are made, be conversational. Viewers want to feel that the video presentation is talking directly to them. The more that is accomplished in the script, the better a response by those watching.
As a reminder, NDM Writing Service can help polish the script before recording the video. Please leave a request if needing help.
