Article

How to write a video script

Some notes on how to write a video script.

Jacob Pugmire

Aug 10, 2024 — 3 min read

Scripted vs non-scripted

Some video creators will script every word and use a teleprompter, while others it is all improv. For early content creators, we should fall someone in the middle.

We don't have the skills to do all improv, and if we try to do a fully scripted video it will 1) sound like we are reading and 2) take too long, because we are trying to memorize every line.

So just script important parts like the hook and conclusion and add bullet pullets and a solid, light structure.

Things to consider when scripting

Title ideas
Thumbnail ideas
Hook/Intro
Main Body
End-Screen

Most professional YouTubers think about the title and thumbnail before the video, while beginners usually do the opposite.

You know your title is good when you can repeat it in the beginning of your video as your hook.

Use the end-screen to point the viewer to watch another one of your videos.

You can escape competition through authenticity. Lean into your personal experience.

The common video script:

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.

Some important advice

Script every single word. (One of the articles opinion, but maybe not necessary.)
It’s worth doing two to three rounds of edits to cut any unnecessary words in your writing.
Check for transitions. 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.
Do a verbal run-through off-camera. Make sure what you've written sounds natural spoken.
Create a powerful beginning. You have more viewers during the first 10% of your video than at any other time. So, your top goal when writing a video script is to hook viewers at the beginning so that they keep watching until the end.
Think ahead where you want to implement B-roll footage, then plan to shoot this. (Where will you be talking and then it transitions to B-roll footage?)
Add graphics, infographics, something visual, unique, and helpful.

Components of a script

slug lines (also known as a scene heading, establishes the setting of each scene. It lets the reader know when a new scene begins)
action lines (what happens in the scene)
dialogue (what is said)