5 Tips to Writing a Great Video Script
Trust me I’ve written tons of them
Nearly every good video starts with a good script. And for some, writing one can tend to be a little overwhelming. I should know. I’ve written hundreds of them. From short to long. For all types of products, services and businesses…and every one’s completely different. Given this range, I’ve always stuck with a few tips to help keep me on track.
1. Start with a Good Hook
You got at least 10 seconds. That’s it. That’s all it takes for your viewer to decide if they’re going to watch the whole video. So a good hook to grab their attention right off the bat is crucial.
That means based on who your audience is, you should kick things off with something either exciting, eye-catching, humorous, clever, jolting or simply something incredibly honest. Maybe you ask a question, declare a concern your audience can relate to, or hey, this is video, so a visual idea could work well. Just some way that lures them in, so they stick around.
2. Know the Type of Video
Is it a TV commercial featuring a brand or online video for a website? Or maybe its purpose is more educational? Knowing the type of video you’re writing helps get your thought process down for determining the most appropriate message. Here’s a few more styles of videos I’ve had an opportunity to write.
● TV Commercial
● Online Video
● Explainer
● Animation/Motion Graphics
● Spokesperson
● Testimonial
● Crowdfunding
● Product Demo
● Company Overview
● Educational Video
● Comedy Sketch
● True Story Based/Documentary
3. State the Problem
It’s easy to just plunge right into bragging about how great your product or service throughout the whole video. There are some brands that have been around long enough, that they don’t need to mention why anyone needs them. However, if you’re aiming to stay competitive, it’s smart to mention the problem right away, so they have a reason to act.
It could be as simple as:
1. There’s a lot more you could get in your wireless plan.
2. You’re wasting money and water on toilet paper.
3. Saving energy at home is easier than you think.
These are three problems I’ve actually used before and are great ways to get your audience to think from the get-go.
4. Keep it Simple
Let me guess; your client just gave you a long list of each and every little thing they want in the video. Well, probably not gonna happen. And believe it or not, it’s your job to determine what are the most important things are actually going in!
Once you have a simple, relatable theme that works well, stick to a small list of points you feel make the brand shine the most. It could be how innovative it is, how great value can be or how it’s so easy to use; however, don’t overload the script with everything cause seriously, that’s what websites are for!
5. Make Sure There’s a Call to Action
OK, so your target audience enjoyed watching most of your video, but what now? Did you tell them what to do, or better known as a call to action? According to what type of video you’re writing (see tip 2), your new fans need to know what’s next. Maybe it’s as simple as subscribing to a YouTube channel or liking their post.
Mentioning their name at their physical retail location. Donating to their crowdfunding cause. Or, what’s most common is making a purchase via their website. Don’t forget; it doesn’t always have to wait until the end either!
Go Forth and Write Scripts
Now these are just a few tips I use when writing my own scripts, however there’s plenty more where that came from. If there were a quick 6th tip, I’d say edit, edit and edit! OK, maybe that’s 6–8. But strong advice as when writing a good video script as every second counts!
For more tips, advice, smartass remarks or if you’d like to hire me to write your next script, please email me at brian@briankille.com or visit my site at briankille.com to check out my work.