Want to simplify complex ideas with explainer videos? Here’s how to do it in 5 simple steps:
- Define your main message: Focus on one core idea to keep things clear and concise.
- Write a strong script: Start with a hook, tell a story, and keep it simple.
- Design compelling visuals: Use animations, graphics, or screen recordings to match your message.
- Record professional audio: Ensure clear voice-over with the right tone and pacing.
- Test and refine: Gather feedback, check clarity, and tweak for better engagement.
Explainer videos combine narration and visuals to make even the most technical topics easy to understand. Follow these steps to create videos that engage your audience and deliver your message effectively.
Complete Explainer Video [Step-by-Step]
Step 1: Set Your Main Message
A clear, focused message is the backbone of any successful explainer video.
Pick Your Main Topic
Start by zeroing in on the one key idea you want your audience to take away. Think about the primary issue your viewers face and address that specifically – don’t try to cover too much at once.
For instance, if you’re explaining a feature of a complex software platform, stick to one main functionality rather than attempting to explain the entire platform. This focused approach makes it easier for viewers to absorb the information and take the next step.
Ask yourself these questions to pinpoint your main topic:
- What’s the one takeaway viewers need to understand?
- What problem are you solving for them?
- What action do you want them to take after watching?
Once you’ve locked in your topic, break it down into smaller, manageable parts.
Break Down Complex Topics
After defining your main message, simplify it into smaller, easy-to-understand pieces. Breaking down complex ideas makes them more approachable and easier to follow.
Here’s a method for tackling complex topics:
| Step | Purpose | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Identify Core Concept | Define the main idea | User Authentication |
| Create Building Blocks | Split into basic components | Username, Password, Security Token |
| Connect Components | Show how they relate | How these elements work together |
| Add Context | Use familiar comparisons | Like using a key to unlock your door |
Highlight Clear Benefits
Make sure your message emphasizes what the audience will gain. Focus on outcomes that are easy to understand and directly relevant to their needs.
When showcasing benefits:
- Explain how your solution saves time or money.
- Illustrate ways it improves workflows or relationships.
- Highlight measurable results, like increased productivity or better outcomes.
Step 2: Write Your Script
Create a script that keeps viewers interested and makes difficult ideas easier to understand.
Open Strong
The first 15-20 seconds are critical to grabbing attention and showing why your content matters. Start with a hook that addresses a core problem or challenge your audience cares about.
Here’s a simple structure for your opening:
| Element | Purpose | Example Time |
|---|---|---|
| Hook Question/Statement | Catch attention | 0-5 seconds |
| Problem Statement | Show you understand | 5-10 seconds |
| Solution Preview | Spark curiosity | 10-15 seconds |
| Value Proposition | Highlight benefits | 15-20 seconds |
Once you’ve captured their attention, smoothly transition into the main content.
Tell a Clear Story
Turn complex topics into stories that are easy to follow. Use a problem-solution framework to structure your script, and keep the tone conversational.
Here’s a step-by-step flow for your story:
- Set the scene: Describe the current situation or problem.
- Build tension: Highlight the challenges and their effects.
- Present the solution: Introduce your idea or product naturally.
- Show transformation: Share a clear before-and-after example.
Write Simply
Make your language straightforward and easy to understand, even when covering technical topics. Avoid jargon whenever possible.
Here are some tips for clear writing:
- Use active voice to make sentences direct and engaging.
- Keep sentences short – ideally under 20 words.
- Break down complicated steps into smaller, manageable parts.
- Provide relatable examples to explain abstract ideas.
- Use metaphors to make technical concepts easier to grasp.
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Step 3: Create Strong Visuals
Once your script is ready, visuals take center stage. They help simplify and convey complex ideas effectively.
Choose the Right Animation Style
Pick an animation style that aligns with your message:
- 2D Motion Graphics: Great for visualizing data and explaining processes.
- Character Animation: Perfect for storytelling and building emotional connections.
- Whiteboard Animation: Ideal for step-by-step tutorials or technical content.
- Kinetic Typography: Highlights key messages and stats effectively.
- Screen Recording: Best for software demos and how-to content.
Select a style that resonates with your audience and supports your message.
Present Data Clearly
Transform complex information into easy-to-understand visuals. Focus on one key idea at a time to keep things clear. Here are some tips for effective data visualization:
- Introduce data points gradually with progressive reveals.
- Use contrasting colors to draw attention to key details.
- Animate charts and graphs to illustrate changes over time.
- Add context, like familiar objects, to make data relatable.
Keep visuals clean and straightforward so viewers can grasp the message instantly.
Stay On-Brand
Consistent visuals help reinforce your brand and build trust. To ensure your video aligns with your brand identity, focus on these elements:
- Color Palette: Use your brand’s main and accent colors throughout.
- Typography: Stick to one or two fonts that match your brand guidelines and are easy to read.
- Visual Elements: Include recognizable icons, consistent shapes, smooth transitions, and branded intro/outro sequences.
A study by Invido in September 2023 found that branded videos enhance audience connections.
Step 4: Record Clear Audio
Good audio quality is key to keeping your audience engaged and ensuring your message is understood.
Pick the Right Voice Style
Your voice style should match your content and connect with your audience. Here are a few options:
- Professional: Works well for business or technical topics.
- Conversational: Great for breaking down complex ideas in an approachable way.
- Energetic: Keeps listeners interested during detailed or lengthy content.
- Authoritative: Perfect for presenting data or research-heavy material.
Think about your audience and the tone of your content when choosing your approach.
Focus on Clear Delivery
Speak at a steady pace – around 150–160 words per minute – for better clarity. Here are some tips to ensure your audio stands out:
- Pronounce technical terms carefully.
- Pause naturally between major points to give listeners time to process.
- Keep your volume steady throughout.
- Record in a quiet environment to avoid distractions.
Investing in a good microphone and basic soundproofing can make a noticeable difference in audio quality.
Sync Audio with Visuals
Make sure your voiceover matches the visuals on screen. Here’s how to do it:
- Time your script to line up with transitions in the video.
- Mark important moments to include natural pauses.
- Adjust the balance between audio and visuals for a smooth presentation.
If your content is dense, recording in shorter sections can help maintain consistency and clarity. When audio and visuals work together seamlessly, your video will feel polished and professional.
Step 5: Test and Improve
Once your audio and visuals are synced, the next move is to test and fine-tune your video. This step ensures your explainer video delivers your message effectively.
Check Message Clarity
Take a fresh look at your video to ensure everything is clear. Focus on:
- Core Message Visibility: Watch the video without sound to confirm the visuals alone communicate the main points.
- Logical Flow: Make sure concepts transition smoothly from one to the next.
- Accuracy: Double-check any data, stats, or technical terms for correctness.
Pay attention to:
- Pacing: Deliver information at a speed that’s easy to follow without overwhelming the audience.
- Visual-Audio Alignment: Ensure the narration matches the animations.
- Consistency in Terms: Use the same technical terms throughout.
- Key Points: Highlight the main takeaways so they stick with the viewer.
Before seeking external feedback, make sure your message is as clear as possible.
Get Viewer Input
Gather feedback to uncover areas for improvement:
- Show the video to your target audience.
- Ask direct questions about how clear and engaging the content is.
- Analyze metrics like viewer drop-off points to see where adjustments might be needed.
If you’re using Invido, its built-in analytics can help you measure how well your audience is engaging with the video.
Find the Right Length
The ideal video length depends on how complex the topic is and how long you can hold your audience’s attention. Instead of sticking to a fixed duration, test different lengths and check engagement metrics. Pay special attention to how viewers respond to the opening moments and track how many finish the video. Aim for a balance between providing enough information and keeping viewers interested.
Conclusion: Next Steps
Review the Process
Creating effective explainer videos requires following a structured plan: clarify your message, craft a script that grabs attention, design visuals that support the story, record high-quality audio, and test your video to ensure it connects with the audience. This approach helps your message land effectively.
Fine-Tune Your Approach
To improve your explainer videos, pay close attention to:
- Engagement metrics like watch time, drop-off points, and audience feedback
- Maintaining a consistent style that aligns with your brand identity
- Starting with shorter, simpler videos and gradually tackling more detailed subjects
Invido’s analytics tools can offer insights into viewer behavior, helping you fine-tune your videos for better results. Use this data to make informed adjustments and take your content to the next level.
Put Your Plan into Action
It’s time to turn your strategy into reality:
- Take a complex idea and break it into manageable sections
- Adapt your message to match your audience’s knowledge level
- Share your video on platforms where your audience is most engaged
