Complete Explainer Video [Step-by-Step]

Introduction

Creating an explainer video from scratch can seem overwhelming, but with a systematic approach, it’s possible to craft engaging and informative content in a short amount of time. In this article, we will walk through the step-by-step process of creating a complete explainer video, including how to find a topic, conduct research, write a script, record a voiceover, and create animations.

Step 1: Finding Your Topic

The foundation of any effective explainer video lies in selecting an interesting and relevant topic. Start by brainstorming ideas based on your interests, experiences, or expertise. Use tools like Google Sheets or notes applications on your phone to jot down ideas as they come to you.

Consider searching for trending topics or commonly asked questions to ensure that your content resonates with your audience. For instance, after researching what "affiliate marketing" was and gathering insights, I decided to create a brief overview for beginners.

Step 2: Research Phase

Before you proceed to scriptwriting or animation, conducting thorough research on your chosen topic is paramount. Google your topic and read articles to understand different perspectives, common questions, and unique angles. Pay attention to queries within the "People also ask" section, which can help guide your content creation.

A tool like Keywords Everywhere can aid in identifying the search volume and competition for your selected topic. This way, you can make informed choices about whether it's worthwhile to develop content on that subject.

For instance, during my research on affiliate marketing, I discovered common beginner questions such as "What does an affiliate marketer do?" and "How do I start affiliate marketing?" These insights helped in shaping the direction of my explainer video.

Step 3: Outlining Your Content

After collecting information, begin crafting an outline. A good structure for an explainer video can be framed as "What, Why, and How." This approach allows you to clarify what the topic is, why it matters, and how viewers can implement the information.

Create a Google Doc to outline main points, including definitions, examples, and calls to action. Make sure to keep the structure straightforward to enhance clarity and engagement.

Step 4: Writing the Script

With an outline in hand, start writing your script. Focus on drafting a cohesive and concise narrative that encapsulates your key points. Aim for a total runtime of around two minutes, as brevity is essential for retaining viewer interest.

As you write, strive for clarity while eliminating fluff or repetitive statements. This process is called refining, and it’s crucial because the quality of your script directly impacts the final product.

Step 5: Recording the Voiceover

Once your script is polished, it’s time to record the voiceover. Make sure to choose a quiet room with minimal reverb. Common equipment includes a microphone, headphones, and recording software like GarageBand.

Testing your audio levels before recording is important to ensure a clear voice without distortion. Take breaks to stay hydrated and to keep your voice sounding fresh throughout the recording process.

Step 6: Animating Your Explainer Video

After recording the voiceover, import it into your animation software and start creating visuals for your video. Listen to the voiceover as you design each scene, ensuring that visuals support and enhance the narrative.

Applying animations, text, and graphics should be a natural extension of your script. The goal is to make your explanations clear and engaging without overwhelming viewers with too much information at once.

Step 7: Final Editing and Publishing

Once your animation is complete, it's time to edit and make any necessary adjustments to the video. Add background music and ensure the pacing is consistent throughout. After final adjustments, export the video and upload it to platforms like YouTube, including an engaging title, description, and relevant tags to increase visibility.

Conclusion

By following these steps—researching your topic, outlining the content, writing and refining the script, recording the voiceover, and animating the video—you can successfully create a polished explainer video. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t hesitate to create more videos and refine your process with each iteration.

Keywords: explainer video, script writing, affiliate marketing, research phase, voiceover, animation, video editing

FAQ:

1. What is the first step in creating an explainer video? The first step is to choose an interesting and relevant topic that resonates with your audience.

2. How can I find topics for my explainer videos? You can find topics by brainstorming ideas, researching popular questions, and using tools to check trending topics in your niche.

3. What should I focus on during the research phase? Focus on gathering information about your topic, including audience questions, competing content, and unique angles for your presentation.

4. What tools can help with writing a script? Google Docs is great for outlining your content, and referencing existing explainer videos can inspire your script structure.

5. How do I ensure good audio quality while recording a voiceover? Record in a quiet room using a quality microphone, test the audio levels beforehand, and stay hydrated to keep your voice clear.