9 Steps to Create an Engaging Explainer Video
There’s no shortage of video-creating software for building engaging explainer videos. These software platforms allow you to create videos with text, audio, images, and animation in minutes. But to take advantage of them, you must know what steps to take. Are you well-versed in creating explainer videos? If not, let’s look at a 9-step process for creating an explainer video.
Define your target audience
Before creating your first explainer video, determine who you want to reach with it. This will help you tailor the content and messaging to the appropriate audience. Begin by researching the age, gender, and location of your target audience to help you craft an appropriate message.
Then consider the interests and motivations of your audience. Are you targeting potential customers or existing ones? The more clearly you define your audience, the more closely you can target them in your video.
Determine the purpose of the video
What do you want to achieve with the explainer video? Do you want to introduce a new product or service, explain a complex concept, or provide step-by-step instructions for a task? A clearly outlined goal will help you focus on creating an effective video. Ask yourself questions like:
- What do I want viewers to take away from the video?
- How can the video be used to engage viewers?
- What is the core message I want to get across?
- What action do I want my viewers to take after watching the video?
Answering these questions will help you hone in on the purpose of the video, allowing you to create a more effective explainer video.
Develop a script
Write a script for the video that clearly and concisely explains the concept or idea. Keep the language simple, and avoid using industry jargon. First, identify the key message you want to communicate.
Once you establish the main idea, begin organizing the points you want to make and the order in which you want to present them. Consider your target audience, as the language and tone of the script should be appropriate for your intended audience.
While crafting the script, use concise and simple language. Avoid using too much jargon to ensure the message is clear and understandable. Include visuals and graphics to give the video maximal impact.
Lastly, review and edit the script to ensure it is accurate and concise. By following these steps, you will have a well-crafted script for your explainer video.
Choose a style
Once you have a script, decide on the visual style of the explainer video. Do you want a 2D or 3D animation? Will the video feature characters or be more abstract? You can use different styles of explainer videos to create a unique look and feel. Making the right choice can help capture the essence of the product or service.
Consider an animation style, such as a 2D or 3D animation or a live-action style. Both are powerful tools for conveying a message, so choose the one that best resonates with your product or service.
Plan the tone and aesthetic of the video. The style should complement the product or service and help illustrate its features and benefits in an engaging and memorable way. Think about the visuals and sound – what type of images and music will draw your audience’s attention and make them want to learn more?
Your goal should be to create something that stands out and creates a lasting impact, helping draw attention to your product or service and make it memorable. With the right tone and aesthetic, your video can be a powerful tool for highlighting the unique features of your product or service.
Create a storyboard
Creating an explainer video requires a carefully planned and thought-out storyboard that reveals the visual elements and sequences your explainer video will have. This will serve as a blueprint for the final video. A storyboard is a visual representation of the message you would like to communicate to your audience.
The process of creating a storyboard should begin with a brainstorming session. This will allow the key points of your message to be identified and organized into a logical sequence of events.
Then you can create a series of sketches, diagrams, or other visual elements that represent each point. Once the storyboard is complete, it will offer a foundation to build the rest of the explainer video. An effective explainer video will not only provide an engaging message but will also be visually appealing and easy to understand.
Record a voiceover
Record the voiceover for the video using the script as a guide. Voiceover is an essential element of a video. Ensure the recording is professional and uses the provided script as a guide. Use a professional microphone and record in a quiet space to get the best sound quality.
When recording, read the script clearly and with good pacing and articulation. Aim for a natural, clear speaking voice and avoid using slang. After recording, listen back to ensure the voiceover is correct and make any necessary adjustments. Quality voiceover is an important part of any video, so do it right!
Create the animation
Creating the animation for your explainer video requires a comprehensive understanding of the storyboard and voiceover. You’ll want to ensure the animation is timed perfectly with the audio so the visuals match the narration and dialogue. With the right creative vision, you can make a captivating explainer video that will engage your audience through a combination of story, audio, and animation.
Edit and polish
Edit the video to ensure it flows smoothly and effectively communicates the desired message. Add additional elements, such as music or sound effects, as needed. Ensure the video flows smoothly and is polished to the highest standard.
Check for errors, adjust the timing of transitions and cuts, and add any additional elements, such as music and sound effects, that you want to add. Then apply any color creation to ensure the video looks as good as possible.
Publish and promote
Don’t underestimate the importance of getting the word out about your video! Your video has no reach without promotion. Publish the explainer video on your website and social media platforms and promote it through email marketing and other channels.
In conclusion, creating an engaging explainer video takes time and effort, but the rewards are worth it. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can create a high-quality video that resonates with your audience and provides a powerful visual representation of your message.
With the right combination of storytelling, visuals, and sound, you can create an explainer video that educates, informs, and entertains your viewers.