When was the last time you watched a short video to understand a product or service? Chances are, it wasn’t too long ago. Explainer videos have become a key tool for businesses looking to capture attention, simplify complex ideas, and convert viewers into customers.
Whether you’re showcasing a product or explaining a process, an explainer video can deliver clear, memorable information in under two minutes. But how do you create an explainer video that actually works?
This guide breaks down the process into actionable steps, covering everything from scripting to distribution. By the end of this post, you’ll have all the tools you need to craft a video that informs, engages, and inspires your audience.
Why Explainer Videos are Essential
Explainer videos are bite-sized pieces of content designed to communicate key information quickly and succinctly. They’re ideal for illustrating complex concepts or introducing new products and services.
Here’s why they’re so effective:
- Attention-Grabbing: Studies show that people retain 95% of a message when consumed through video, compared to just 10% through text.
- Ease of Understanding: Explainer videos use visuals, voiceovers, and motion graphics to simplify even the most intricate concepts.
- Boost Conversions: Landing pages with explainer videos see up to an 80% increase in conversions.
From startups promoting a new app to e-commerce brands explaining how their service works, explainer videos are a versatile tool for any industry.
The Anatomy of an Effective Explainer Video
Not all explainer videos are created equal. The most successful ones share these key components:
- A Catchy Hook: The first 5-10 seconds should grab the viewer’s attention. Whether it’s a surprising statistic or an engaging question, make it impossible for viewers to click away.
- A Clear Problem-Solution Narrative: Highlight a problem your audience faces, then present your product or service as the solution.
- Simple, Engaging Visuals: Use motion graphics or animations to visually reinforce the message. Keep it sleek and avoid visual clutter.
- A Strong Call to Action (CTA): Close your video with a clear next step—whether it’s visiting a website, signing up for a service, or making a purchase.
When executed correctly, these elements will work together to leave a lasting impact on your audience.
How to Create an Explainer Video in 7 Steps
1. Define Your Goal
What outcome are you hoping to achieve with your explainer video? Do you want to increase website traffic, boost conversions, or educate your audience?
Having a clear goal will shape key decisions, from the scriptwriting process to final edits.
2. Know Your Audience
Understanding your target audience is critical. Are you speaking to tech-savvy millennials? Busy small business owners? A specific tone and style will resonate with each audience differently.
Use tools like audience personas to map out their pain points, preferences, and communication style.
3. Craft a Strong Script
Your script is the foundation of your explainer video. Keep these tips in mind while writing:
- Keep it simple. Avoid jargon and focus on making your message clear and to the point.
- Engage emotions. Connect with your audience by highlighting relatable pain points.
- Maintain a conversational tone. Your script should feel natural, like someone’s explaining something to a friend in plain language.
Example structure:
- Open with the problem your viewer faces.
- Introduce your product/service as the solution.
- List 2-3 key benefits or features.
- End with a CTA (e.g., “Sign up now to get started!”).
4. Choose the Right Style
Explainer videos can take many forms, such as:
- Animated Videos: Perfect for simplifying abstract concepts.
- Live-Action Videos: Ideal for fostering a personal, human connection with viewers.
- Whiteboard Animations: Great for educational or step-by-step explanations.
- Screencast Videos: Best for software tutorials or showing real-life product use.
Pick a style that aligns with your brand personality and communicates your message effectively.
5. Storyboard Your Vision
A storyboard helps you visualize key scenes in your video. Even rough sketches can ensure your ideas translate well on screen. Break your video into scenes, noting where visuals, voiceovers, and animations appear.
This will help you maintain alignment between the script, visuals, and tone throughout production.
6. Add High-Quality Visuals, Music, and Voiceover
- Visuals: Prioritize clarity, avoiding overly complex animations or cluttered graphics. Use colors and motion to guide the viewer’s focus.
- Music: Choose a background track that suits the mood of your video—upbeat and motivational or calm and professional.
- Voiceover: A strong, clear voice can make a world of difference. Always hire professional voiceover artists for a polished finish.
Tip: Platforms like Envato Elements and AudioJungle are excellent for sourcing stock visuals and audio.
7. Edit and Optimize for Results
Post-production is where everything comes together. Use tools like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro to polish your footage. Don’t forget to:
- Add captions and subtitles for accessibility.
- Keep the video short (ideally under 2 minutes).
- Optimize the video file for faster loading across devices.
Once your video is complete, upload it to YouTube, embed it on your website, and share it across your social media channels.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Focusing on Features, Not Benefits: Customers care about how your product will help them—not its technical specifications.
- Overcomplicating the Video: Stick to a single clear message to avoid confusing your audience.
- Ignoring SEO: Optimize video titles, descriptions, and tags to improve search visibility.
By keeping these pitfalls in mind, you’ll create a video that resonates with your target audience and drives results.
Final Thoughts
Creating an effective explainer video doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on a clear goal, a structured script, and engaging visuals, you can craft a powerful story that captivates your audience and drives action.
If you’re ready to take your business messaging to the next level, there’s no time like now. Start planning your explainer video today with Huat Designs—your audience (and your next success story) is waiting.
