How to Write a Winning Explainer Video Script
A compelling explainer video script is the foundation of any successful video, balancing engagement, clarity, and a persuasive narrative. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting a script that resonates with your audience and converts views into actions.
1. Define Your Objective and Audience
Start by clarifying the purpose of your video. Is it to increase brand awareness, educate customers, or drive sign-ups? Identifying your goal helps you maintain a focused message throughout. Once you have a goal, identify your audience and their pain points, ensuring your message addresses their needs directly.
2. Open with a Hook
Capture your viewer’s attention within the first few seconds. This could be a question, a surprising fact, or a statement that speaks to a common pain point. The goal is to make viewers immediately feel that this video is relevant to them.
Example Hook: “Struggling to keep track of your projects? Imagine a tool that simplifies everything.”
3. Present the Problem Clearly
Outline the problem or challenge that your product or service solves. Be specific and empathetic, showing that you understand the viewer’s frustration.
Example Problem Statement: “Managing multiple projects can feel chaotic and time-consuming, especially when things are scattered across different tools.”
4. Introduce Your Solution
After establishing the problem, introduce your product or service as the solution. Describe the benefits it offers, focusing on how it simplifies the viewer’s life rather than diving into technical details.
Example Solution Introduction: “With [Product Name], you can keep all your tasks, deadlines, and communications in one place—saving you time and hassle.”
5. Highlight Key Features (Optional)
If relevant, briefly outline a few standout features of your product, but keep it simple. The emphasis should be on how these features solve the viewer’s problem, not on technical specifications.
6. End with a Strong Call to Action (CTA)
Conclude with a clear and actionable CTA. Encourage viewers to take the next step, whether that’s signing up, starting a free trial, or contacting your team.
Example CTA: “Ready to simplify your project management? Sign up for a free 30-day trial today and see the difference.”
7. Best Practices for an Effective Script
• Keep It Concise: Aim for 60-90 seconds, enough to convey your message without losing attention.
• Use a Conversational Tone: Address the audience directly (using “you” and “your”) to make the message more personal and engaging.
• Show Empathy: Relate to the viewer’s struggles to build trust.
• Focus on Benefits Over Features: Explain how the product improves life rather than detailing every technical aspect.
• Test for Flow and Clarity: Read the script aloud to ensure it flows naturally and is easy to understand.
Sample Script Outline
1. Hook: Capture attention with a relatable question or statement.
2. Problem: Briefly describe the viewer’s challenge.
3. Solution: Introduce your product as the answer.
4. Key Features (if necessary): Highlight only what’s essential.
5. Call to Action: End with a direct prompt to take the next step.
Following these steps ensures that your explainer video script is not only engaging but also strategically crafted to achieve your video’s goals.
Alina
I'm the Director of Creative Operations at Viral Ideas. I'm passionate about marketing, writing, and social media.