Scriptwriting is an essential piece of the video production process if your video will contain
or on-screen speakers. Perfecting a script before you shoot ensures that the words you say will match the ideas, tone and style of the visuals and video as a whole.
Careful scriptwriting also ensures that the main points are covered in the dialogue and that you’re using clear, concise and
powerful language
to send your message. Adlibbing during a shoot rarely produces the quality that a well-thought-out script will.
While you’re writing the script for your next video, keep these tips in mind.
1. Consider your goals:
Before you even put pen to paper for your script, make sure you understand the goals of the video you’re creating. Who is the video’s audience? What questions does the video aim to answer? What should the viewer take away from your video? Having these goals top of mind will ensure you hit all the key points.
2. Draft an outline:
Scripts need to be organized well to produce a logical flow of ideas and support the visuals planned for the video. Like written content, your script should include an introduction, body and conclusion. However, there are a few components that will need to be arranged strategically, such as a call to action. You’ll also need to account for the key points you want to include. Organize these distinct ideas and video elements in an outline before beginning to draft the words themselves.
3. Include a hook:
The first words a viewer will hear from your video can influence them to stick around for more or click away. Therefore, you’ll want to make sure your opening lines hook the audience. This hook will look different depending on the type of video you’re producing, but a general rule is to introduce the main idea right away. In an explainer video, this might touch on a pain point. In a how-to video, the opening line might say exactly what you’ll be demonstrating.
4. Align the words with video cues:
Your script should also include cues for the major nonverbal elements of your video. Include things like on-screen characters, locations, text or graphics, sounds effects and descriptions of your key shots. Essentially, the script should serve as a written play-by-play for your video, both visually and audibly. This ensures that the words you say align naturally with what you plan to show.
5. Read the script out loud:
Once you have your script written out word for word, you’ll want to read through it a few times to make changes. Reading out loud can help you
check for tone, complex sentences and unnecessary words. One important thing to pay attention to is the length of your script. Consider how long your video is supposed to be, then time yourself reading the script out loud at a natural pace. If you go over time, you’ll need to trim until the script is the appropriate length. If you’re under time, look for places to add more dialogue so you aren’t left with awkward gaps.
Scriptwriting is a skill that can take time to perfect. With practice, your scripts will come together easily and convey powerful messages. Need help developing the script for your next video campaign?
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Spin Creative is a video production company and creative agency helping marketers create winning video and creative strategies that engage, inspire and activate targeted audiences. Spin is headquartered in Seattle with offices in San Francisco and London, serving brands around the globe.
