Explainer videos are one of the most effective ways to communicate ideas quickly and clearly. But the secret behind a successful explainer video is a well-crafted script. Without a strong script, even the best animations or visuals can fall flat.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of writing a compelling explainer video script.
1. Understand Your Goal and Audience
Before you start writing:
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Are you introducing a product?
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Educating users?
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Driving conversions?
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Identify your target audience:
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Age, profession, pain points, and interests.
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Knowing your audience helps you choose the right tone and language.
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Tip: Keep your audience at the center of every sentence you write.
2. Keep It Short and Focused
Explainer videos are usually 60–120 seconds long.
That’s roughly 150–300 words.
Focus on one key message. Don’t try to explain everything in one video.
Example: If your product has 10 features, pick the most important feature for this explainer video.
3. Structure Your Script
A typical explainer video follows this structure:
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Hook (0–10 sec)
Grab attention immediately. Start with a problem or a surprising fact. -
Problem (10–20 sec)
Describe the problem your audience faces. Make it relatable. -
Solution (20–60 sec)
Introduce your product or service as the solution. Highlight benefits, not just features. -
How It Works (60–90 sec)
Show a simple explanation of how it works. Use step-by-step visuals if possible. -
Call to Action (90–120 sec)
Tell viewers exactly what to do next.-
“Sign up today”
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“Book a demo”
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“Visit our website”
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4. Write Conversationally
Explainer videos work best when the tone is friendly and conversational.
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Use simple words, short sentences, and active voice.
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Avoid jargon or long technical explanations.
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Imagine speaking directly to one person, not writing an essay.
Tip: Read your script aloud to make sure it sounds natural.
5. Add a Story Element
Stories make content memorable. Even a short explainer video can follow a mini story arc:
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Before: Show the audience’s problem or pain.
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During: Introduce your solution.
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After: Show the happy result.
Example: “Jane struggled to track her team’s tasks. Then she used XYZ tool, and now her workflow is smooth and stress-free.”
6. Use Visual Cues
Since explainer videos are visual, add notes for animations or visuals alongside your script.
This helps animators or video editors create visuals that match the narration.
7. Keep Timing in Mind
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Most people speak 130–150 words per minute.
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Time each section accordingly:
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Hook: 5–10 seconds
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Problem: 10–15 seconds
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Solution: 30–45 seconds
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How it Works: 20–30 seconds
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CTA: 5–10 seconds
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Tip: Use a timer while reading aloud to ensure the script fits the desired length.
8. Revise and Test
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Cut unnecessary words. Make it crisp and punchy.
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Read aloud to check the flow and natural tone.
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Test on a few people: Do they understand the message clearly?
Conclusion
Writing a script for an explainer video isn’t just about writing words—it’s about crafting a story that engages, educates, and drives action.
By focusing on your audience, structuring your message, and keeping it short and conversational, you can create a script that forms the backbone of an effective explainer video.
Pro Tip: Always combine your script with strong visuals and animations—they complement each other perfectly.
