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YouTube Script Template: The Only 7 You'll Ever Need (With Examples)

Stop staring at blank pages. Get 7 proven YouTube script templates you can copy-paste and customize: tutorial, review, vlog, listicle, commentary, case study, and comparison formats. Includes hook formulas, structure breakdowns, and real examples from top creators.

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The Blank Page Problem Every YouTuber Knows Too Well

It's Tuesday afternoon. Your video idea is solid. The research is done. You've got your coffee. You open Google Docs and... nothing.

The cursor blinks. And blinks. And blinks.

“How do I even start this? What should the intro be? Where do I go after the hook?”

Two hours later, you've written three sentences, deleted two, and spiraled into YouTube “research” watching other creators' videos instead of writing your own script.

Here's the thing: you don't have a creativity problem. You have a structure problem.

Every successful YouTube video follows a proven template. Tutorial videos follow a template. Product reviews follow a template. Vlogs follow a template. Even “unstructured” commentary videos follow a template.

The creators who script videos in 30 minutes instead of 4 hours? They're not better writers. They just know which template to use—and when.

Why YouTube Script Templates Actually Work

You might think: “Templates sound restrictive. Won't they make my content generic?”

Nope. The opposite, actually.

Think about your favorite YouTubers. MKBHD's tech reviews follow the same structure every time (intro → unboxing → specs → camera test → verdict). Ali Abdaal's productivity videos follow a pattern (personal story → framework → actionable steps → resources).

Templates don't kill creativity—they free you to focus on what actually matters: your ideas, your personality, your unique take.

Here's why templates work:

  • Eliminates decision fatigue: You're not reinventing structure every video
  • Optimized for retention: These templates are proven to keep viewers watching
  • Faster scripting: Fill in the blanks instead of starting from zero
  • Consistent quality: Your viewers know what to expect (and algorithms reward consistency)

Below are the 7 YouTube script templates that cover 95% of all content types. Pick the one that matches your video style, customize it with your content, and you'll have a finished script in under an hour.

Template #1: The Tutorial / How-To Script

Best for: Educational content, step-by-step guides, skill-building videos

Examples: “How to Edit Videos in DaVinci Resolve,” “How to Build a Website in 20 Minutes,” “How to Cook the Perfect Steak”

Structure Breakdown

  • Hook (0-15 sec): Show the end result or promise speed/ease
  • Context (15-45 sec): Why this skill matters or who it's for
  • Prerequisites (45-60 sec): What viewers need before starting
  • Step-by-Step (Main Content): Break down into 3-7 clear steps
  • Common Mistakes (Optional): What to avoid
  • Recap + Next Steps: Summary and what to try next

Hook Formula

“In the next [TIME], I'm going to show you how to [RESULT] using [METHOD]. Even if you've never [OBSTACLE] before.”

Example: “In the next 10 minutes, I'm going to show you how to edit a professional-looking video using free software. Even if you've never touched a video editor before.”

Full Template (Copy-Paste Ready)

[HOOK] In the next [X minutes], I'm going to show you how to [DESIRED OUTCOME]. Even if [COMMON OBJECTION/OBSTACLE]. [CONTEXT] Here's why this matters: [1-2 sentences on importance or impact]. This is perfect for you if [describe ideal viewer]. [WHAT YOU'LL NEED] Before we start, make sure you have: - [Tool/Resource 1] - [Tool/Resource 2] - [Tool/Resource 3] [STEP 1: Action Verb + Outcome] First, you need to [clear action]. Here's exactly how: [specific instructions]. [Optional: Show common mistake here] [STEP 2: Action Verb + Outcome] Next, [clear action]. The key here is [important detail]. [STEP 3: Action Verb + Outcome] Now, [clear action]. Pro tip: [helpful shortcut or insider knowledge]. [Repeat for steps 4-7 as needed] [COMMON MISTAKES] Before you try this yourself, avoid these mistakes: - Mistake 1: [What not to do] - Mistake 2: [What not to do] - Mistake 3: [What not to do] [RECAP + NEXT STEPS] So to recap: [quick summary of main steps]. Now go try this with [suggested first project]. And if you want [deeper/related outcome], check out [related video/resource].

Retention Tips for Tutorial Scripts

  • Show the final result in the first 5 seconds (visual proof)
  • Number your steps clearly (“Step 1,” “Step 2”) so viewers know progress
  • Add a pattern interrupt every 60-90 seconds (zoom in, change camera angle, show B-roll)
  • Use phrases like “Here's where most people mess up” to create mini-hooks within steps

Real Example: Ali Abdaal

Ali's “How I Take Notes” videos follow this exact structure: hook with promise (improve memory/productivity), context (why note-taking matters), prerequisites (app/tools needed), step-by-step walkthrough with screen recording, common mistakes, and recap with next resource recommendation.

Template #2: The Product Review Script

Best for: Tech reviews, gadget unboxings, software comparisons, honest assessments

Examples: “iPhone 15 Pro Review,” “Is the M3 MacBook Worth It?,” “Notion vs. Obsidian: Honest Comparison”

Structure Breakdown

  • Hook (0-10 sec): Bold claim or verdict upfront
  • Quick Context (10-30 sec): What this product is, who it's for, price
  • What I Liked (2-3 mins): Specific positives with examples
  • What I Didn't Like (1-2 mins): Honest negatives (builds trust)
  • Who Should Buy This (1 min): Specific use cases
  • Final Verdict: Clear recommendation (yes/no/maybe)

Hook Formula

“After [TIME PERIOD] with the [PRODUCT], here's the truth: [CONTROVERSIAL/SURPRISING TAKE].”

Example: “After two weeks with the M3 MacBook Pro, here's the truth: most people shouldn't buy it.”

Full Template (Copy-Paste Ready)

[HOOK] After [X days/weeks] with the [PRODUCT], here's the truth: [bold take or verdict]. [QUICK CONTEXT] For those who don't know, [product name] is [what it is] that costs [price]. It's designed for [target audience]. I've been using it for [timeframe] to see if it's worth the hype. [WHAT I LIKED] Let's start with what works: First, [specific positive feature]. [Example or demonstration of this in action] This is huge for [specific use case]. Second, [another positive]. Compared to [competitor/previous version], this is [improvement]. Third, [another positive]. [Personal story or specific scenario where this shined] [WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE] Now, here's what bothered me: First issue: [specific negative]. [Why this matters and who it affects] Second issue: [another negative]. This is especially annoying when [scenario]. Third issue: [deal-breaker or minor annoyance]. [WHO SHOULD BUY THIS] So who is this actually for? Buy this if: - You [specific need/use case] - You [another scenario] - You don't mind [accepting the cons] Skip this if: - You [different need] - You [budget constraint] - You already have [competitor product] [FINAL VERDICT] Bottom line: [Clear yes/no/maybe with reasoning]. For most people, I'd recommend [alternative or go-ahead]. If you want [specific outcome], this is [worth it/not worth it].

Retention Tips for Review Scripts

  • Lead with your verdict in the hook (creates curiosity for the “why”)
  • Show B-roll of the product while talking (never just talking head for more than 20 seconds)
  • Be brutally honest about negatives—trust is more valuable than sponsor money
  • Use specifics, not generics (“The battery lasted 8 hours” not “battery is good”)

Real Example: MKBHD

Marques's reviews always start with a bold take or surprising observation, give quick context (specs/price), dive into what works and what doesn't with specific examples, then end with a clear “who should buy this” segment. His honesty about flaws is what makes his recommendations trustworthy.

Template #3: The Vlog / Story Script

Best for: Personal vlogs, day-in-the-life, storytelling, narrative content

Examples: “A Day in My Life as a Software Engineer,” “How I Built a $10K/Month Side Hustle,” “My Biggest Failure (And What I Learned)”

Structure Breakdown

  • Hook (0-10 sec): Teaser of the most interesting moment
  • Setup (30-60 sec): Where you were, what you were trying to do
  • Rising Action: Challenges, obstacles, unexpected moments
  • Climax: The peak moment (success, failure, realization)
  • Reflection: What you learned, how you feel, what's next

Hook Formula

“[DRAMATIC MOMENT]. Let me explain how I got here.”

Example: “I just quit my $150K job with no backup plan. Let me explain how I got here.”

Full Template (Copy-Paste Ready)

[HOOK - In Media Res] [Jump to the most dramatic/interesting moment] [Pause for tension] Let me explain how I got here. [SETUP] So this started [timeframe ago] when [initial situation]. At the time, I was [context about your life/situation]. My plan was to [original goal]. [RISING ACTION - Part 1] The first challenge hit when [obstacle 1]. [How you felt, what you thought] I decided to [action you took]. [RISING ACTION - Part 2] Things got more complicated when [obstacle 2]. [Specific example or scene] At this point, I was starting to [emotional state]. [RISING ACTION - Part 3] Then [unexpected event or realization]. [Detail the moment with sensory details] [CLIMAX] And that's when [peak moment happened]. [Describe the scene in detail] [Your immediate reaction/emotion] [FALLING ACTION] After that, [what happened next]. [Reflection on the experience] [RESOLUTION/REFLECTION] Looking back, here's what I learned: - [Lesson 1] - [Lesson 2] - [Lesson 3] If you're going through [similar situation], here's my advice: [actionable takeaway]. [WHAT'S NEXT] So what's next for me? [Future plans or tease next video]

Retention Tips for Vlog/Story Scripts

  • Start in the middle (in media res)—hook with the climax, then rewind
  • Use specific details (“I was sitting in my 2012 Honda Civic” not “I was in my car”)
  • Vary your pacing—slow down for emotional moments, speed up for action
  • End with a lesson or takeaway so viewers feel like they gained something, not just watched your day

Real Example: Casey Neistat

Casey's vlogs follow classic story structure: open with a teaser (him doing something dramatic), rewind to the morning, build up through the day with obstacles and moments, climax with the resolution, end with reflection while he's editing late at night. Every vlog has narrative arc even when it's “just” his day.

Template #4: The Listicle Script

Best for: Top 10 lists, recommendation roundups, curated collections

Examples: “10 Apps That Changed My Life,” “5 Books Every Entrepreneur Should Read,” “7 YouTube Mistakes Killing Your Growth”

Structure Breakdown

  • Hook (0-15 sec): Promise transformation or tease #1 item
  • Context (15-30 sec): Why this list matters
  • Items (Main Content): 3-10 items, each with explanation and example
  • Bonus Item (Optional): Surprise 11th item for retention
  • Summary + CTA: Quick recap and next action

Hook Formula

“These [NUMBER] [THINGS] [TRANSFORMATION]. Especially #[X].”

Example: “These 7 productivity apps saved me 10 hours per week. Especially #4.”

Full Template (Copy-Paste Ready)

[HOOK] These [NUMBER] [ITEMS] [RESULT/TRANSFORMATION]. Number [X] completely changed [specific outcome]. [CONTEXT] I spent [timeframe] testing [how many you tested] different [category]. These are the only [NUMBER] that actually [criteria for making the list]. [ITEM #1: NAME] First up: [item name]. Here's why this made the list: [specific benefit]. [Personal example or use case] [Specific detail or stat that proves value] [ITEM #2: NAME] Number two: [item name]. This one is perfect for [specific scenario]. [How you use it / Why it works] [ITEM #3: NAME] Next: [item name]. Now, this might seem [common objection], but [counter-argument]. [Example of impact] [Continue for items 4-10] [BONUS ITEM - Optional] Okay, bonus item that didn't make the main list but deserves a mention: [Bonus item with brief explanation] [SUMMARY] So to recap, here are the [NUMBER] [items]: 1. [Item name] for [use case] 2. [Item name] for [use case] 3. [Item name] for [use case] [etc.] [CALL TO ACTION] Start with [which item to try first] and let me know in the comments which one you found most useful. And if you want [related topic], check out [related video/resource].

Retention Tips for Listicle Scripts

  • Tease the best item in the hook (“especially #4”) to create curiosity
  • Put a strong item at #3 to prevent mid-video drop-off
  • Vary the length of each item (some quick, some detailed) for pacing
  • Add a “bonus” item at the end to reward viewers who stayed

Real Example: Matt D'Avella

Matt's “10 Things” videos hook with transformation promise, give context on why these items matter, then break down each with personal stories and specific examples. He varies pacing—some items get 30 seconds, others get 2 minutes—to keep it dynamic.

Template #5: The Commentary / Opinion Script

Best for: Hot takes, industry commentary, cultural analysis, controversial opinions

Examples: “Why Everyone Quit Their Job in 2024,” “The Problem With Productivity Culture,” “Why I Disagree With [Popular Opinion]”

Structure Breakdown

  • Hook (0-15 sec): State your controversial take
  • The Popular Opinion (30-60 sec): What everyone else thinks
  • Why They're Wrong (Main Content): Your counter-argument with evidence
  • Nuance (1-2 mins): Where you agree, exceptions to your take
  • What This Means: Implications and what people should do instead

Hook Formula

“Everyone thinks [POPULAR BELIEF]. They're wrong. Here's why.”

Example: “Everyone thinks you need to wake up at 5am to be productive. They're wrong. Here's why.”

Full Template (Copy-Paste Ready)

[HOOK] Everyone thinks [popular belief/trend]. They're wrong. Here's why. [THE POPULAR OPINION] If you've been online lately, you've probably seen [trend/opinion]. The argument goes like this: [summarize the common take]. [Example of someone/platform promoting this] And look, I get the appeal. [Acknowledge why it's popular] [WHY THEY'RE WRONG - POINT 1] But here's the problem nobody's talking about: [First counter-argument] [Evidence or example] [Why this matters] [WHY THEY'RE WRONG - POINT 2] Second issue: [another counter-argument]. [Specific example or data] I saw this firsthand when [personal experience]. [WHY THEY'RE WRONG - POINT 3] And the biggest issue: [strongest counter-argument]. [Compelling evidence] This is actually causing [negative consequence]. [NUANCE] Now, I'm not saying [extreme opposite position]. There are cases where [popular opinion] makes sense: - [Exception 1] - [Exception 2] But for most people, [restate your position]. [WHAT THIS MEANS] So what should you actually do? [Your alternative recommendation] [Specific action steps] [CLOSING] Look, I know this is controversial. But [final thought on why your take matters]. Let me know if you agree or think I'm completely wrong in the comments.

Retention Tips for Commentary Scripts

  • Lead with your hottest take—don't bury the controversy
  • Steel-man the opposing view (makes your argument stronger)
  • Use specific examples and data, not just opinion
  • Add nuance to avoid seeming preachy—acknowledge where you could be wrong

Real Example: Alex Hormozi

Hormozi's business commentary videos state a controversial position upfront, explain the mainstream belief, systematically dismantle it with frameworks and real examples, acknowledge exceptions, then provide his alternative framework. His willingness to be controversial (but backed by logic) is why his content spreads.

Template #6: The Case Study Script

Best for: Results-driven content, before-and-after transformations, documenting experiments

Examples: “I Posted on YouTube for 90 Days. Here's What Happened,” “How I Gained 10K Followers in 30 Days,” “$0 to $10K: Building a Business from Scratch”

Structure Breakdown

  • Hook (0-10 sec): State the result upfront
  • The Starting Point: Where you began (with proof)
  • The Strategy: What you did, step-by-step
  • The Results: Outcome with data and screenshots
  • What Worked / What Didn't: Honest analysis
  • Key Takeaways: Lessons anyone can apply

Hook Formula

“I [ACTION] for [TIMEFRAME]. Here's what happened.”

Example: “I posted one YouTube video every day for 100 days. Here's what happened.”

Full Template (Copy-Paste Ready)

[HOOK] I [committed to action] for [timeframe]. Here's what happened. [THE STARTING POINT] [X time ago], I was at [starting metric/situation]. [Screenshot or proof of starting point] I decided to [experiment/challenge] to see if [hypothesis]. [THE STRATEGY] Here's exactly what I did: Week 1-[X]: [Phase 1 strategy] [Specific actions taken] [Tools or methods used] Week [X]-[Y]: [Phase 2 strategy] [How the approach evolved] [What I changed and why] Week [Y]-[Z]: [Phase 3 strategy] [Final adjustments] [THE RESULTS] After [timeframe], here are the numbers: - [Metric 1]: Went from [start] to [end] - [Metric 2]: Went from [start] to [end] - [Metric 3]: Went from [start] to [end] [Show proof: screenshots, analytics, etc.] [WHAT WORKED] Three things that made the biggest impact: 1. [Success factor 1] [Why this worked] [Specific example] 2. [Success factor 2] [The data behind this] 3. [Success factor 3] [Unexpected benefit] [WHAT DIDN'T WORK] Now, here's what flopped: - [Failure 1]: Thought this would work, but [what actually happened] - [Failure 2]: Wasted [time/money] on this - [Failure 3]: [Lesson learned the hard way] [KEY TAKEAWAYS] If you want to try this yourself, here's what you need to know: Lesson 1: [Actionable insight] Lesson 2: [Another takeaway] Lesson 3: [Most important lesson] [WHAT'S NEXT] So what's next? [Future plans or next experiment] If you want to follow along, [subscribe/follow/notification pitch].

Retention Tips for Case Study Scripts

  • Show proof constantly—screenshots, graphs, analytics (builds credibility)
  • Be brutally honest about failures (makes successes more believable)
  • Include specific numbers, not vague claims (“grew 247%” not “grew a lot”)
  • End with actionable takeaways so viewers can replicate your results

Real Example: Ali Abdaal

Ali's “How I...” case study videos (how he built his YouTube channel, his business, his income streams) follow this structure: hook with impressive result, show the starting point with proof, break down the strategy with timestamps and tools, show analytics and results, analyze what worked and what didn't, extract lessons viewers can apply.

Template #7: The Comparison Script

Best for: Head-to-head product comparisons, method comparisons, “A vs. B” content

Examples: “iPhone vs. Samsung: Which Should You Buy?,” “Notion vs. Obsidian,” “Traditional Job vs. Freelancing: The Truth”

Structure Breakdown

  • Hook (0-10 sec): State the verdict or tease a surprising winner
  • What We're Comparing: Quick overview of both options
  • Category-by-Category Breakdown: 3-5 comparison categories
  • The Winner (Each Category): Clear call for each section
  • Final Verdict: Overall recommendation with nuance

Hook Formula

“[OPTION A] vs. [OPTION B]. I tested both for [TIMEFRAME]. The winner? [SURPRISING TAKE].”

Example: “Notion vs. Obsidian. I used both for 30 days. The winner? It depends.”

Full Template (Copy-Paste Ready)

[HOOK] [Option A] vs. [Option B]. I tested both for [timeframe]. The winner? [Verdict or "it depends"]. [WHAT WE'RE COMPARING] [Option A] is [brief description, price, who uses it]. [Option B] is [brief description, price, who uses it]. I'm comparing them on [list 3-5 categories] to figure out which one you should actually choose. [CATEGORY #1: Name] First up: [comparison category like "Ease of Use" or "Performance"]. [Option A]: [How it performs in this category] [Specific example or test result] [Option B]: [How it performs in this category] [Specific example or test result] Winner: [Clear call with reasoning] [CATEGORY #2: Name] Next: [comparison category]. [Option A]: [Performance] [Pros and cons] [Option B]: [Performance] [Pros and cons] Winner: [Clear call] [CATEGORY #3: Name] [comparison category]. [Option A]: [Details] [Option B]: [Details] Winner: [Clear call] [Continue for categories 4-5 as needed] [FINAL VERDICT] So which one should you actually get? Choose [Option A] if: - You [specific need] - You [use case] - You [budget/preference] Choose [Option B] if: - You [different need] - You [different scenario] - You [different priority] Bottom line: [Nuanced recommendation] For me personally, I'm going with [your choice] because [reasoning].

Retention Tips for Comparison Scripts

  • Show both products side-by-side on screen (split-screen or B-roll comparison)
  • Be fair to both options—biased comparisons lose trust
  • Pick surprising categories (not just price/features—include “which is more fun to use”)
  • Give a clear winner for each category, but nuanced final verdict

Real Example: MKBHD

Marques's comparison videos (iPhone vs. Pixel, Windows vs. Mac) break down specific categories (camera, performance, ecosystem, value), show side-by-side footage for each, declare a winner for each category, then give a nuanced final verdict based on user type. He never says “this is objectively better”—he says “this is better IF...”

How to Choose the Right Template for Your Video

Now that you have all 7 templates, here's how to pick the right one:

Ask Yourself These Questions:

  • What's the goal of this video? To teach a skill? Share an opinion? Review a product?
  • What format does my audience expect? Educational creators lean tutorial, tech channels lean review/comparison
  • What do I have to work with? Data/results? Use case study. Strong opinion? Use commentary.
  • What's my energy level? High energy? Vlog/story. Low energy? Tutorial or listicle (more structured).

Quick Decision Tree:

  • Teaching a skill or process → Tutorial
  • Evaluating a product or service → Review
  • Sharing a personal experience → Vlog/Story
  • Recommending multiple things → Listicle
  • Arguing a position → Commentary
  • Showing results of an experiment → Case Study
  • Evaluating two options → Comparison

Pro tip: You can mix templates. A product review can include a comparison section. A case study can include tutorial steps. Once you understand the structure, you can adapt and combine.

The Fastest Way to Turn Templates Into Finished Scripts

Okay, so you've picked your template. Now what?

Here's the fastest way to fill it in:

Step 1: Copy-Paste the Template

Literally copy the template above into a Google Doc. Don't start from scratch.

Step 2: Record a Voice Note (Don't Type)

Instead of typing your answers, talk through the template out loud. Record a 10-15 minute voice note where you ramble through each section.

Why? Because when you talk, you sound like yourself. When you type, you sound robotic.Learn the complete voice-first scripting method here.

Step 3: Transcribe + Structure

Use AI to transcribe your voice note, then drop your spoken words into the template structure. Edit for clarity, but keep the conversational tone.

Step 4: Polish for Retention

Read through your script and add:

  • Pattern interrupts every 60-90 seconds (questions, B-roll cues, location changes)
  • Specific examples instead of vague statements
  • Open loops (“I'll explain why in a minute”)
  • Visual cues ([show graph on screen], [cut to B-roll])

Total time: 30-45 minutes instead of staring at a blank page for 4 hours.

Common Mistakes When Using YouTube Script Templates

Mistake #1: Following the Template Too Rigidly

Templates are guidelines, not handcuffs. If a section doesn't fit your video, skip it. If you need to add a section, add it. The structure should serve your content, not restrict it.

Mistake #2: Forgetting to Add Your Personality

The template gives you structure. You give it personality. Add your jokes, your stories, your unique phrasing. Otherwise it's just a fill-in-the-blank exercise.

Mistake #3: Not Reading It Out Loud

A script that reads well on paper might sound awkward on camera. Always do a read-through before filming. If something feels unnatural to say, rewrite it.

Mistake #4: Using the Same Template for Every Video

Variety keeps your content fresh. If you always use the listicle template, your channel gets predictable. Mix it up based on your topic and what serves your audience best.

Stop Reinventing the Wheel (Use What Works)

Every successful YouTube creator uses templates. They don't admit it, but they do.

MKBHD's tech reviews follow the same structure every time. Ali Abdaal's productivity videos have a predictable pattern. MrBeast's challenge videos follow a formula.

The difference between them and struggling creators? They know which template to use and when.

You don't need to be a genius writer to create great YouTube scripts. You just need:

  • A proven template that matches your content type
  • Your unique ideas and personality to fill it in
  • A system to turn that template into a finished script fast

If you want the fastest way to go from template to polished script—in 30 minutes instead of 4 hours—ScriptZen was built for exactly this workflow:

  • Choose your template (The Angle: Contrarian, Story, or Guide)
  • Record a voice note talking through your video idea
  • AI structures it into the template automatically
  • Polish in the teleprompter-style editor
  • Hit record with a script that sounds like you

Try ScriptZen free for 7 days and turn these templates into finished scripts in minutes →

No more blank page paralysis. No more 4-hour scripting sessions. Just proven templates + your voice = finished scripts.

FAQ: YouTube Script Templates

Do I need to follow these templates exactly?

No. These templates are starting points, not rigid rules. If a section doesn't fit your video, skip it or modify it. The goal is to eliminate blank-page paralysis, not restrict your creativity. Use the structure as a guide, then make it your own.

Which template is best for beginner YouTubers?

Start with the Tutorial or Listicle template. Both are highly structured (easy to follow), proven to get views (high search volume), and forgiving if your delivery isn't perfect yet. Avoid Commentary and Vlog templates until you're comfortable on camera—they require more personality and confidence.

Can I combine multiple templates in one video?

Absolutely. Real-world videos often blend templates. For example: a Product Review (template #2) might include a Comparison section (template #7) and end with Tutorial steps (template #1) on how to use it. Once you understand the structures, mix and match based on what serves your content best.

How long should each section of the template be?

It depends on your total video length. For a 10-minute video: hook (15-30 sec), intro/context (30-60 sec), main content (7-8 min), conclusion (1 min). The key is pacing variance—some sections should be quick (30 sec), others deeper (2-3 min). Never let any single section run longer than 2 minutes without a pattern interrupt.

Should I write out every word or just bullet points?

Depends on your comfort level. Beginners: write out the full script word-for-word (easier to use a teleprompter, builds confidence). Experienced creators: bullet points with key phrases (sounds more natural, allows improvisation). Hybrid approach: write the hook and conclusion word-for-word (they're critical), bullet points for the middle.

How do I make my script sound natural and not robotic?

Two tricks: (1) Write how you talk, not how you write. Use contractions (don't, can't, it's), casual phrasing, and conversational rhythm. (2) Record a voice note first, then transcribe it. When you speak naturally, your personality comes through. Typing from scratch tends to sound formal and stiff.

What if my video doesn't fit any of these 7 templates?

These 7 cover about 95% of YouTube content. If your video truly doesn't fit, identify the closest templateand modify it. For example: a “Q&A video” is basically a Listicle (template #4) where each item is a question. A “Day in the Life” is a Vlog/Story (template #3). Most “unique” formats are variations of these core structures.

How often should I use the same template?

It's fine to use the same template repeatedly if it matches your niche. MKBHD uses the Review template for every tech video. Ali Abdaal uses the Tutorial template frequently. Your audience subscribes for a consistent experience. However, mixing in different templates every 3-4 videos keeps your content fresh and attracts different viewer types.

YouTube Script Template: The Only 7 You'll Ever Need (With Examples)