Lesson 7: Articles for Recording a Project/Demonstration

How to make an instructional, informational, or tutorial video script (How to Write a Script for a Video)

One of the most common reasons people make videos is to walk others through a process. Before you write your tutorial video script, ask yourself these questions: 1. Who is my audience? 2. What specific problem will the tutorial solve? 3. What will the audience be able to do after watching this?

What is an instructional video? (The Ultimate Guide to Easily Make Instructional Videos)

An instructional video is any video that demonstrates a process, transfers knowledge, explains a concept, or shows someone how to do something.

I'll walk you through just one example of a script that works particularly well *for screen recording videos, animations, and videos that are mostly voiceover.* Step 5: Edit your script (How to Write a Script for a Video)

As you choose your words, make each one work for a specific spot on the page. They need to have a purpose. Once you have your first draft, go through your script and start editing, rearranging, and cutting. Cut out as much as you can. -If it's not moving you towards your goal, consider cutting it. -You want your video to be as long as it needs to be to cover the required material, but as short as possible

Here are a few more scriptwriting tips to help you get started:

Avoid jargon. -Using simple language as if you're explaining the process to a friend will help make your script easier to follow. Show AND tell. -Instead of simply giving a play-by-play of your onscreen actions, take time to explain both what you're doing and why you're doing it. Practice, practice, and then practice some more. -Read your script aloud before you record. If you get tripped up, go back and make sure you're using natural language. Get feedback. -It might seem scary at first, but getting feedback during the scripting process will improve your instructional video and save you time later.

Step 4: Record your video

Depending on your instructional video's topic, you might need to capture a recording of a process happening on your screen, demonstrate something in real life, or both. *Recording your screen for an instructional video* First, clean up your computer screen and close any unnecessary applications. Then, open the application you want to record and conduct a few practice walkthroughs of exactly what you want to show your viewers. -This practice will help you get smooth cursor motions, and you'll have less editing to do in the end. After a few run-throughs, open the Camtasia recorder and capture your screen just as you practiced. -Remember, if you make a mistake, pause and start again from that point. -You'll be able to smooth things out when editing later on. *TIP:* When you choose a screen capture or screencasting software, pick a tool with built-in recording, editing, and sharing features. It will save you time and let you do all of your work in one tool. *Recording an instructional video with a camera* -Don't get overwhelmed by equipment. In the video above, we only used five tools: a tripod, smartphone, phone clip, a clean backdrop, and lights. -Make sure your recording space is well-lit. You'll either want to record in an area with a lot of natural light or add some video lighting to your equipment list. -Place your camera on a tripod, and position it as close to your subject as possible while still getting everything you need in the shot. Being close to the subject will help you get the best possible audio when recording with a smartphone camera.

Scripts all contain similar types of information, like (How to Write a Script for a Video)

who's speaking, what's being said, where it's being said, and other critical pieces of information. Now, all this information can be super helpful. However, if you're not creating a film that's for entertainment, you probably don't need all the nitty-gritty details or worry about the video production yet.

Here are some of the most common types of instructional videos you can create: (The Ultimate Guide to Easily Make Instructional Videos)

*Microvideos* are short instructional videos that focus on teaching a single, narrow topic. *Tutorial videos* are the go-to instructional method for teaching a process or giving step-by-step instructions and are sometimes referred to as "how-to" videos. *Training videos* are designed to improve employees' workplace skills and often use footage of real people to connect the trainer to the trainee. *Explainer videos* explain a business concept or product in an entertaining, visual way. They're usually short and help simplify complex ideas. *Recording a lecture or presentation* can make that instructional content available for an audience to consume or review after the fact. These videos tend to be longer than tutorial videos and require a higher level of investment from your audience. *Screencasts* are quick, informal videos composed primarily of screen recordings designed to teach someone to perform a task or share knowledge. Unlike other forms of video, an instructional video instructs. While you don't want your videos to be boring, *your main goal is for your viewers to comprehend and learn what you are teaching them.*

Your script should include a few components: (How to Write a Script for a Video)

-The words that will be spoken -Information about the words -Where they are said -How they are said -Any other helpful information information -You may also want to include an easy way to reference each line or sentence. -When you write a script, you can use whatever format best works for your needs.

Mistake #1 - Have too many programs running (7 Mistakes to Avoid When You Record Your Computer Screen)

Clutter on your computer screen is distracting. there's nothing worse than having to fumble through unnecessary apps and programs to get what you actually want to show in your video. *A better way:* Tidy up your desktop beforehand. Only keep open programs and windows you plan to show during your video.

Objectives

Create quality content for a screencast. Develop a script for a screencast. Utilize Camtasia to design and develop a screencast. Publish a video using Camtasia.

I'll walk you through just one example of a script that works particularly well *for screen recording videos, animations, and videos that are mostly voiceover.* *Bonus! Set up a table read* (How to Write a Script for a Video)

For the table read, gather your reviewers. --Whoever you choose is up to you, but make sure they are individuals who will contribute and have the project's interests in mind. Read through your script out loud. --As you read, watch their faces, listen to their comments, take it all in. Now isn't the time to defend your decisions, but ask questions and get clarification. If the conversation gets stuck, *there are a few questions to have in your back pocket:* -Is the message clear? -Does the script make sense and achieve its intended goal? -Are there words that they would change? Even after running the table read, you may want the person recording the script to review it as well. Ask them to read it out loud. They may find parts of the script to be a mouthful. In an ideal situation, you'll be there listening and making notes. As they read it out loud, make adjustments on emphasis and word choices if needed. As you listen, you may find things you can clarify or points you've missed.

I'll walk you through just one example of a script that works particularly well *for screen recording videos, animations, and videos that are mostly voiceover.* Step 6: Read your script out loud (How to Write a Script for a Video)

I usually like to read my script out loud but make sure my message flows. -It's good to get away from people to ensure you can practice in peace. I recommend you read your script out loud at least one time before recording or moving on in your process. -Even if you're not the one who will read it, this is a great way to make sure your message flows naturally. Words that sound good on paper don't always flow when they're said out loud. -You may find that there are changes you need to make based on how difficult particular phrases are to say. -It's easier to make changes now than during the recording process.

Step 5. Edit the video

In Camtasia, you can cut out mistakes by selecting them with the playhead, then clicking cut. To trim extra footage from the ends of your recording, drag the end of the clip in. Add your audio narration to the timeline when you finish editing your video. You can use clip speed and extend frame to sync the audio and video in your project. Here are some simple video editing tips to improve your instructional videos: -If you need more time explaining a concept, split the clip and use extend frame to freeze the video. -To speed up a boring part of your recording, add clip speed, then drag the handles to speed it up. -Add interactive elements like callouts, arrows, shapes, lower thirds, or sketch motions to highlight key points in your video. Adding music to your video isn't required, but can take a good video to the next level. Choose something upbeat. -You want your viewers to feel good as they're learning.

Mistake #2 - Forget to turn on your mic (7 Mistakes to Avoid When You Record Your Computer Screen)

It's beyond frustrating to deliver a rousing rendition of your entire presentation only to realize that the mic has been off the whole time. Or, that the mic was on, but the volume wasn't up enough. Or, it was up too loudly (ouch). *A better way:* Make a point of checking your audio levels before you start recording. -Do a short (30-second) narration test run, then review it to confirm that the correct mic is on (are you using your built-in mic, or an external one?), -and the volume levels are correct.

Mistake #6 - Go too fast (7 Mistakes to Avoid When You Record Your Computer Screen)

Maybe it's because we're just a little nervous. Or maybe it's because we know the workflow so well that we talk waaay too fast when we're presenting. Especially when we're showing detailed digital processes on-screen, it's easy to overwhelm viewers by slinging your mouse across the screen and clicking too fast. *A better way:* Slow down your explanations. -What may sound slow to you is probably just the right speed for your viewers to understand what you're explaining. -That goes for your mouse, too. ---Point and click with purpose. ---Consider using a screen recorder that has a cursor highlighter, to more clearly show your movements.

Mistake #5 - Get 'dinged' every two minutes (7 Mistakes to Avoid When You Record Your Computer Screen)

Notifications are great, except when you're in the middle of a recording. Hearing your email chime every few minutes is annoying at best, and takes away some of the polish from your video. With more apps than ever getting in on the notification game, it's almost inevitable that you'll have some unwanted "ding" come through, or an annoying pop-up alert box, *A better way:* Turn off all your notifications (email, apps, etc.) before you start. -If you don't need to record sounds from your computer, turn off your system audio altogether.

Step 2: Write a storyboard and script

Once you have a topic and know your audience, create a storyboard to outline and visualize what you plan to show. Creating a storyboard ahead of time will help you make an instructional video that is clear, concise, and interesting to your audience. Quick sketches and stick figures are perfectly fine for live video. If you'll be recording your screen to demonstrate a process, use a series of simple screenshots to show what you plan to display with the narration. After storyboarding is done, it's time to write a script. Even a simple script will help you be more efficient, saving both yourself and your viewers time. Plus, you'll also be far less likely to forget something. It's helpful to match your narration to what will be happening on screen during your video. If you were creating an instructional video about using the default calculator on a Mac, your script might look like this:

Research shows that when people look for answers to their questions, they prefer to consult a video. In fact: (The Ultimate Guide to Easily Make Instructional Videos)

Research shows that when people look for answers to their questions, they prefer to consult a video. In fact: -83% of people prefer watching videos to accessing instructional or informational content via text or audio. -More than half of online shoppers say they use video to help make purchase decisions. -Two out of three employees complete tasks better when instructions are provided visually and absorb information 7% faster. -More than 70% of YouTube viewers turn to the platform for help solving problems.

I'll walk you through just one example of a script that works particularly well *for screen recording videos, animations, and videos that are mostly voiceover.* *Step 3: Be conversational* (How to Write a Script for a Video)

Scripts that we like tend to use words that are specific and focused. You should probably avoid buzzwords cliches and generalizations. You want your audience to clearly understand you, but not roll their eyes.

Mistake #3 - Stumble over your passwords (7 Mistakes to Avoid When You Record Your Computer Screen)

Showing on-screen workflows includes logging in - which is suddenly tough to do when you're used to relying on password-autofill to do it for you. The same goes for usernames and other qualifying info. Hunting for your login information can mess up your momentum. *A better way*: Know all your passwords before you begin recording -and make sure you know the URLs of the login screens, too - especially for websites that you have open indefinitely and don't readily know the "start screen" URL. *Pro tip:* Sometimes it's actually better not to show the 'typing' part of logging in. -Why? It's kind of boring. You can easily trim it out. In your finished video put a "wipe transition" on the typing - show the first few characters of your user/pass, then jump to the end, when you're ready to press "login." -Your audience will get the idea, and won't have to sit through a straightforward process they already understand.

I'll walk you through just one example of a script that works particularly well *for screen recording videos, animations, and videos that are mostly voiceover.* Step 7: Get feedback (How to Write a Script for a Video)

So, you've built your script, and you've read it out loud. Finished? Well, not so fast. If you haven't yet, you also need to ask someone not involved in the writing to read the script. As difficult as criticism can be, it has always made my scripts better. You can get your feedback through email, Google Docs, or other online methods. However, my preferred method is the table read

I'll walk you through just one example of a script that works particularly well *for screen recording videos, animations, and videos that are mostly voiceover.* *Step 2: Use a template* (How to Write a Script for a Video)

Speed and consistency come from not reinventing the wheel every time you sit down to create something. ---It's using the compound knowledge of what works and doing that time and time again. ---I'm not saying don't innovate — but you don't need to force yourself to come up with something entirely new every single time. When I sit down to write a script, I don't actually start with a blank page: --I start with a template and go through it step by step. -------- it's helped us batch create video content every single month. *Here's the script formula we use to create how-to videos:* *The A.A.A.A Formula*: - Attention (Grab their attention in the first line) - Agitation (Agitate the pain that you can solve) - Activity (Show them HOW to solve it) - Action (Call them to action and tell them how to get the solution) Use this general template when you're creating a video, and you can write a successful script in less than 10 minutes. *refer to printed image. (reference 1)

Here are the essential steps to making a great instructional video: (The Ultimate Guide to Easily Make Instructional Videos)

Step 1: Determine and get to know your audience Step 2: Write a storyboard and script Step 3: Record your narration Step 4: Record your screen or capture video Step 5: Edit the video Step 6: Add a video intro Step 7: Share your video

Another type of script format is for informational content, like training, product demos, or explainer videos. (How to Write a Script for a Video)

These can be great if you need to show off products or services. You can format your script in a variety of ways, but generally, you need to have the same information.

Step 6. Add a video intro

Use a video intro to lead viewers into your content, but don't get too crazy. Keep your opening simple and to the point. A good intro clearly lays out the topic and quickly explains what viewers can expect to learn. To create your own video intro in Camtasia, you will need to add some space at the beginning of your video. Hold the shift key on your keyboard and drag the playhead to the right. Then, open the media bin and select the Library tab. From the "Motion Graphics - Intro Clips" folder, drag the intro you like onto the timeline. Camtasia comes stocked with a few built-in video intro templates, but you can get an entire catalog of pre-made video assets, including intro templates from TechSmith Assets. You can customize your intro clip by selecting it on the timeline and then editing the text and shapes in the properties panel. Enter text, choose a font, and change any colors or other settings for the shapes and text.

Step 1: Determine and get to know your audience

WARNING: As tempting as it may be, DO NOT skip this first step. Even if you know your audience like the back of your hand, it's still vital to put that information into an outline. Before you move on to the next step, make sure you can answer these questions: -What is your topic? Pick only one subject to cover per video, and your instructional video will be more focused and easier to create. -Who is your audience? Start by determining demographic information, like education, age, professional organizations, etc. and then consider their interests, concerns, and goals. -Why does your audience care about this topic? If you understand why your audience would watch the video, you can more easily address their concerns. -What is the learning objective of your video? A clear learning objective helps you provide more straightforward instruction with a more achievable outcome. -How will your video benefit your audience? What value will they take away if someone invests their time in watching your video?

I'll walk you through just one example of a script that works particularly well *for screen recording videos, animations, and videos that are mostly voiceover.* *Step 1: Find a good spot to write a script* (How to Write a Script for a Video)

When it comes time to write your script use any tool you're comfortable with, including pen and paper. Consider choosing a writing environment that's comfortable for you where you can focus and be creative. When you write, consider what you don't have to say out loud. - A lot of your message will be shared through visual components. Keep your writing conversational and think carefully about the words you're choosing.

I'll walk you through just one example of a script that works particularly well *for screen recording videos, animations, and videos that are mostly voiceover.* *Step 4: Tell a story* (How to Write a Script for a Video)

When you're trying to explain something clearly, make sure to follow a good story structure. Make sure your script, no matter how short, has a beginning, middle, and end. This will give the audience watching your video a familiar path to follow. Plus, who doesn't love a good story?

Mistake #4 - Forget you have a roommate (7 Mistakes to Avoid When You Record Your Computer Screen)

Whether it's your kids, spouse, housemate, or dog, Murphy's Law guarantees they will unceremoniously pipe up at an inopportune time during your recording. Any of these background noises: - crying, laughing, sneezing, yipping, or inquiries into "Who ate the last of the cornflakes?" - *distract from your presentation and are a pain to trim out.* This goes for workplace noises, too, such as hallway chatter, printers, and ringing phones, as well as sounds coming in from open windows - trains, motorcycles, birds, and lawnmowers. *A better way:* Record in a quiet room, with the windows closed. Put a sign on the door that lets people know you're recording, to avoid unnecessary barge-ins.

Step 3: Record your narration

With your script in hand, it's time to record the narration. Camtasia comes with a built-in, easy-to-use voice recording feature that is a great option. Still, you can take your voiceover and narration recording to the next level with TechSmithAudiate. Audiate transcribes your voice in real time - as you record. This means you can edit your audio just as you edit the text in a document. Already have a voiceover recorded? Import it into Audiate, and the program will transcribe it for you. When you're ready to hit record, make sure you speak slowly and clearly. If you make a mistake, don't start over. Pause, then start again right before you made the mistake. You can remove any mistakes when you're finished recording.

First thing to do before creating a video (How to Write a Script for a Video)

Write a script. Writing a video script is a lifeline that can help you be more confident and articulate when recording an effective video.

Step 7: Share your video

You can share your video directly to online video platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, or Screencast in Camtasia or save the video as a local file to upload on social media. There are many reasons to share your education and learning videos on YouTube. Plus, we have a free guide with tips and tricks on how to make a YouTube video. Before sending your video out into the world, share it with a few people to get some video feedback. This input helps ensure your message is clear, and that your video accomplishes your goals.

Mistake #7 - Wing it (7 Mistakes to Avoid When You Record Your Computer Screen)

You've done this workflow a million times before. But....once you get off auto-pilot and start actually explaining all the steps, the words don't seem to flow. Or, they flow too much and you end up rambling. *A better way:* Write a script ahead of time. -It's not as hard as it sounds. -Even a rough outline can help a lot. -For extra credit, do a dry-run walk-though. -You might be surprised how a quick rehearsal changes your strategy on how to present your material. Of course, there are other ways to mess up a recording (ever run out battery while recording?), but this list covers some common ways. When you know how to avoid these pitfalls, you'll finish recording with fewer retakes, and be more happy with your overall video-making process.

Camtasia

an application used to create videos and screencasts (i.e., a video recording of what is happening on a computer screen). This application was developed by TechSmith, which also offers various beneficial software applications.