I recently wrote a voice-over video script for a sailing company called Venture Sail. It was for a 30-second YouTube video showcasing their new sailing holiday around the British Isles. It’s here if you want to take a look:

So how do you write a video script?

1. All video scripts start with a brief

Wel, every project no matter what it is should start with a good brief. The brief tells you:

• Who the audience is
• What the call to action is
• What the images you’re working with are
• What the audience will gain from watching it
• When is the deadline?
• Why are we creating it?
• How will it affect the viewer? And more.

You need to answer the questions of; who? What? Where? When? How? And why from the brief.

2. Write an outline script first

The outline is the bones of the script, for my script I watched the images over and over to learn where the transitions were and where to tie in words to what I was seeing on the screen. I use headings for what I want to say at each part of the video. Depending on the type of video you are writing for, the elements are roughly the same:

• Engage the audience – quickly establish what this is about and get their attention.
• Set the scene – let them imagine themselves in this place.
• Set the story – establish the purpose of the video.
• re-engage the audience – more sweet stuff to keep them interested.
• Call to action – end goal and wrap up.

3. Write the full video script

Here’s where you use the tone of voice of your client. In my case, I used evocative language mixed with universally understood sailing terms – as this video was aimed at beginner sailors. In each case whoever you are writing for, make sure:

• You are on brand with your tone and style.
• On goal – keeping the audience and product in mind.
• Write like you speak – so no convoluted or complicated words for the voice-over artist to trip over.
• Time it – make sure your words fit the length of the video.

When writing your script make sure you follow your outline script headings and get all the points in from your brief.

Keep the viewer engaged throughout, set your script against the imagery on screen and have your call to action at the end.

4. Edit your video script

Once I’ve read aloud a script several times to check timings, tweaked and edited, and it all looks and sounds divine. I send the client a first draft to make sure I’m on the right track. Having a good brief will help to make sure this happens each time.

If there are any changes this is the stage to make them. Read aloud alongside the video and check the timings and words match the imagery. Once you’re happy and have proof read it, send a final draft for recording.

Tip: reading aloud helps you hear and spot any mistakes and difficult words or phrases which the voice-over artist might trip over.

5. It’s a wrap

Having a script is an essential part of making a promotional video. The key things to remember are:

• Get a brief
• Write an outline
• Write the script
• Edit the script

There are many types of videos out there so make sure you choose the right script for your film. You can download some free video script templates here.