How I Actually Make Viral Shorts
Education
Introduction
Creating viral content on platforms like YouTube Shorts requires more than just luck or a trendy idea; it requires a systematic approach. After experiencing both highs and lows with my shorts channel—accumulating over 20 million views with several viral videos—I found myself grappling with a plateau in performance. Recent shorts had been underperforming, getting stuck at only a few thousand views. Determined to break this cycle, I decided to create a short video from scratch with the goal of hitting at least 1 million views. Here’s my strategy.
Understanding Current Trends
After hours of research, I realized my previous viral strategies were outdated. It starts with identifying the right video idea. No matter how well crafted your script or editing is, a poor video idea won’t go viral. The key is to focus on current trends within your niche and to implement those trends creatively. As a Marvel fan, I knew that Loki Season 2 had just dropped a new trailer, giving me a fresh topic that audiences were excited about.
Crafting a Compelling Script
Previously, I believed that shorter scripts resulted in better retention. However, my research showed that longer videos often receive more promotion from YouTube. To apply this, I aimed for a detailed script that dives deeper into the subject matter. A strong hook is critical to grab viewers' attention immediately. For instance, I could start with, “Did you see Loki Season 2?!” This not only sparks curiosity but also prompts viewers to keep watching.
Adding Layers of Narration
To enhance the storytelling experience, I incorporated multiple narrators and emotional elements. I planned to use a combination of voiceover and relevant visuals to enrich the narrative. Incorporating recognizable moments, like K. Hui Kuan’s Oscar speech, would invoke emotion and engagement.
Choosing the Right Voiceover
While some might opt for their own voice, I decided to use AI voiceover technology from a tool called ElevenLabs. Adding variations in tone by adjusting the script with exclamation marks and capitalization improved the delivery.
Editing and Engaging Footage
Editing plays a crucial role. I imported relevant footage and arranged it to cover the voiceover. Using dynamic editing techniques—like zooms and movements—maintained viewer engagement. Adding eye-catching graphics and captions tailored to my unique style ensured that my videos stood out from the crowd.
Final Touches: Sound Effects and Music
Sound effects and music are vital in creating a mood and enhancing viewer experience. I utilized both trending songs and my personal favorites, ensuring they complemented the visuals without overpowering them. Fine-tuning color settings made my video visually appealing.
Results and Reflections
After I released my short, the initial response was underwhelming—only 5,000 views in 24 hours. But relying on historical data, I told myself that many successful videos didn’t perform well initially. Ultimately, the video broke out to 2 million views after 30 days, proving that persistence pays off.
The takeaway? Staying true to your niche, understanding current trends, and continuously refining your process is essential. This formula led not only to a resurgence for my channel but also helped me discover that even nostalgia and older topics, when creatively approached, can go viral.
Conclusion
If you’re structuring your videos around these principles and applying continuous learning, the journey to creating viral shorts can indeed be a rewarding one.
Keywords
- Viral Shorts
- Video Ideas
- Current Trends
- Script Writing
- Voiceover
- Editing Techniques
- Sound Effects
- Audience Engagement
FAQ
Q: What is the most important factor in making viral shorts?
A: The key to creating viral shorts lies in choosing the right video idea, ideally one that taps into current trends within your niche.
Q: How long should my shorts be for better retention?
A: Contrary to popular belief, longer shorts tend to perform better as they engage viewers for a longer duration, although retention is still crucial.
Q: How can I improve my video’s emotional appeal?
A: Incorporate storytelling techniques, emotional visuals, and relatable moments to connect with your audience.
Q: What tools can I use for voiceovers?
A: AI Voiceover tools such as ElevenLabs can provide customized voice options that suit your video's tone.
Q: What should I focus on during the editing phase?
A: Keep a sharp focus on pacing, visuals, sound effects, and text graphics to make your short engaging and visually appealing.
