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YouTube Script Template

Writing an engaging YouTube script

YouTube has become a platform for all types of video creators. Artists, storytellers, educators, journalists, and influencers have all used the platform to publish their work directly to viewers. But the best YouTubers often start and work with a well-crafted script. But there's no need to reinvent the wheel — get started now with our YouTube video script template.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of creating a YouTube script using StudioBinder’s AV script writing software so that you can realize the video content you envision.

  • Establish goal
  • Write audio
  • Plan visuals
  • Time video
  • Get feedback

Step 1

1. Set up your YouTube script 

AV scripts are a specific type of script structure that is great for producing YouTube videos. They are specifically designed to communicate the audio and visual components of a video in a two-column format.


For some projects, the simpler, the better. If you find that certain columns are unnecessary for your project, you can hide them. You can easily toggle which columns you want to use and which to hide in the "Customize Columns" section. This feature is especially useful if, for example, you are simply talking to the camera and do not have any specific visuals in mind.

AV Script Template Add Columns
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How to do this in StudioBinder
  1. Create a new script from the project dashboard.
  2. Toggle columns for more simple or complex presentations.

Step 2

2. Define your video's segments

Before diving into the actual writing of your YouTube script, it can be helpful to first define the different sections of your video. This will keep your script organized into manageable sections that can be tailored to your specific video concept.

YouTube Script Template Assemble the outline
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How to do this in StudioBinder
  1. Add segments for each section of your video.
  2. Drag and drop rows or segments to finesse the structure.

Step 3

3. Add audio elements

AV scripts typically use a two-column format: one for audio elements and one for visual elements. Video production entails a variety of audio components from music to voice-over to sound design.


If it's a voiceover, you can write the exact lines in the audio column. If it's specific music, you can even add links to songs or sound design examples. Tailor your YouTube script to your needs.

YouTube Script Template Add voiceover
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How to do this in StudioBinder
  1. Add italics and bold styling to differentiate types of sounds.
  2. Add hyperlinks for references and examples.

Step 4

4. Describe visual elements

For the visual or video column, describe what you'll see on screen such as locations, camera anglesanimationsprops or any other important visual elements that will be included in the shots. This will depend on what your YouTube video script is about. Sometimes, a video may rely less on visuals and more on a script in which case you can add less information here. 


When you embed reference images, this will go a long way to ensure that your vision for the video comes through from the script to the screen.

YouTube Script Template StudioBinder AV Scriptwriting Software
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How to do this in StudioBinder
  1. Embed images or videos, if necessary.
  2. Add hyperlinks for reference clips or imagery.

Step 5

5. Set time durations

Timing is an important aspect of a YouTube video. You want to be concise, but thorough and not at the expense of quality. As you fill in the details of your YouTube script, add total run times for the duration of each shot or section.


This feature helps you keep track of your project's pace and ensures your video stays within the desired length. 

YouTube Script Template Time Your Script
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How to do this in StudioBinder
  1. Set durations manually.
  2. Use the stopwatch time your voiceover. 

Step 6

6. Collaborate and share notes

Whether you're collaborating with a team or working with a client, sharing the script and getting feedback is a critical part of the process. In some cases, the script will need to be approved, even down to the word count and runtime.

YouTube Script Template Add captions
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How to do this in StudioBinder
  1. Generate a view-only link for clients.
  2. Invite collaborators to comment or edit.

If you prefer to share your YouTube script as a PDF or simply want to print or have it digitally on set, exporting it is simple. When you're ready to download your script, simply click "Generate PDF." 

Conclusion

YouTube Script Complete

YouTube has undoubtedly set itself apart in the content platform world. It's an incredible tool for video creators to publish directly to viewers. Great YouTubers have set the bar high for quality videos. But a solid YouTube script is the first step in making your own videos that may resonate with thousands, potentially millions of viewers from around the world. 


If AV scripts are a regular part of your video production workflow, don't miss our collection of AV script templates.

Start your AV Script

Organize a clear presentation of your video idea with an AV script.

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