New creators have a lot to learn when they join YouTube, TikTok, or any platform for the first time. For one, there's the task of turning random viewers into loyal, long-term fans. After that, making money from content becomes a real possibility.

What rarely makes the list, though, is understanding the creator economy, 

which is estimated to be worth $104.2 billion

. After all, who has time to explore the vast content ecosystem? That means learning to thrive on multiple platforms, understanding all the money-making tools, and keeping up with industry news.

Which raises an important question: Is learning the creator economy worth it for everyone? Should it be required for every YouTuber, TikToker, or anyone building an audience?

Jim Louderback and Renee Teeley, co-hosts of 

, say, "No." Only certain types of creators need to go that far.

"If you just want to get noticed, have fun, and find a girlfriend or boyfriend, you don't need to follow the creator economy," Jim says. "But if you're planning to make a career out of community-first media, then the second thing you should do after posting your first video, podcast, or episode is subscribe to The Creator Feed."

The Creator Feed is a weekly show exploring industry news, trends, updates, and how all of it affects creators. For instance, 

, and how can entrepreneurs leverage that perk? Will AI-generated art change the look and feel of YouTube thumbnails forever?

No matter the topic, Jim and Renee break down the major points, share insights, and advise creators on how to move forward.

They can do this because they're both content experts. Jim is the editor and publisher of 

, a weekly newsletter presenting news, strategy, and analysis on the creator economy, web3, and the metaverse. He's also the former general manager of VidCon.

Renee is a creator economy executive and the former senior vice president of Content and Community at TubeBuddy. She has helped creators and brands grow their businesses through video and is a longtime creator herself.

Want to explore the creator economy? Listen to The Creator Feed podcast on 

, or your favorite podcast platform. You can also read this fun interview with Renee and Jim to get acquainted with the show!

Q: Why did you start The Creator Feed podcast? What's your ultimate goal?

: We had nothing better to do at the time. No, seriously, there was a gap in the market between more interview shows and pure tip shows. We wanted to fill it.

We cover the mix of creator business news, advice, and insights for those who are higher-end or professional creators. We're great for people who aspire to 

, as well as the Creator Economy Curious (CEC). But really, professional creators are our target.

Q: Have you seen creators directly benefit from following news in the creator economy? If so, how?

: Absolutely. Many creators are building businesses and offering products and services to help others. Following news and trends can highlight gaps in the market.

For example, Paddy Galloway noticed a market gap for creator resources and developed a job site for YouTube creators called 

Q: There are so many places to make and monetize content. How can people learn about the creator economy without feeling overwhelmed?

: Start small. Listen to our podcast. Read my newsletter. Follow some smart folks on Twitter and LinkedIn. Go to some events like VidCon or VidSummit.

But in the end, make a bunch of content, experiment, and find out what works for you. We have ideas, but no one has the answers to every question. And every creator is different.

Q: On your podcast, how do you determine which news is most important to share with creators?

: I talk about what I think is most interesting, important, and strategic. Or who I want to make fun of that week. Depends on the mood.

: Same as Jim. I try to pick stories that will impact creators. I especially like discussing complex topics to provide some clarity or at least our opinion on what it means for the industry long term.

Q: For each piece of news, you share the pros and cons creators could face. It's very balanced and honest. What guides your process?

: Be honest, and be beholden to no one. I worked off and on in corporate America for most of my career and found that it's hard to say what you think at a big company. My paycheck — or lack thereof — is not determined by any company, platform, or creator. It's freeing and fun.

: Same! We're having honest conversations about the creator economy — the good and the bad.

Q: Speaking of pros and cons, creators have mixed emotions about how YouTube will monetize Shorts in 2023 — requiring 1,000 subscribers and 10 million Shorts views in 90 days. What's your take?

 is a positive move for the industry. It puts pressure on other platforms to figure out more sustainable monetization options.

However, YouTube hasn't been direct about the amount of money going to creators. YouTube stated, "From the overall amount allocated to creators, they will keep 45% of the revenue."

What is the allocated amount? Are creators receiving 45% of the total ad revenue or just a portion of the money coming in from advertising?

Also, 10 million Shorts views in 90 days is still challenging for many new creators. I'd like to see that number come down, so the average creator has a path into the YouTube Partner Program within six months.

Q: You've both built businesses in the creator economy. What's the hardest part about going from creator to entrepreneur?

: Well, I'm sort of going the other way. I wrote for top computer magazines and newspapers and hosted a TV show on TechTV in the late '90s and early '00s, but then I didn't do anything for 15 years. Now I'm leaning back into my creator roots in the world of no gatekeepers. So far, it's not hard. It's more freeing.

: I'm sort of going the other way as well. I started my career helping brands and creators with tech solutions. Then shifted to creating content that empowers creators and brands to grow their communities and build their businesses using video.

I'm doubling down on content this year. Not only does it help others, but I also love the creative process. Our podcast can help creators navigate the creator economy and think about their content strategically as a business.

Q: Have you noticed any traits of successful digital entrepreneurs?

: Being able to do the hustle. It also helps if you can 

, build a company, and have fun along the way. I'm not sure there's a correct path, but I prefer the latter.

: There are many paths to success, but it's a lot more fun to build a company if you love the product and the team.

Q: What makes The Creator Feed stand out from other podcasts?

: I think the background of our cover art for the podcast is really popping. That helps us stand out. Plus, Renee's picture is great.

: What helps us stand out is our commentary and perspective based on years of experience in the industry. Plus, Jim's picture is great.

Q: What can creators expect to learn in future podcast episodes?

: Whether AI-generative art, text, and voice can actually replace podcasters anytime soon. Spoiler alert: The answer is no. But we'll keep working on it.

: What Jim really thinks of the MrBeast Burger.

The Creator Feed podcast hosts Renee Teeley and Jim Louderback on purple background

You know the value of getting views and followers, but what about navigating the creator economy? In this Q&A, The Creator Feed podcast explains why you should 'study' like a content pro.

The Creator Feed Podcast: Why Learning the Creator Economy Is Worth it

For a creator, a good YouTube script is a must. It helps arrange your ideas into a clear story. It also cuts out filler words and stumbles that interrupt your flow. A clear script keeps your message on point.

 It also allows you to speak clearly, avoiding common mistakes we all make when speaking. Messing up a word. Saying "um" too many times. Forgetting what you wanted to say altogether.

. This guide will show you how to make it engaging, natural, and 

But First, What is a YouTube Video Script?

Think of a YouTube script as your video plan. It covers what you will say and what will appear on screen. It helps guide your dialogue and visuals while letting your personality shine.

From a text perspective, your script is also an outline of what you want to say. It's specific enough to read while filming but loose enough to allow for ad-libbing and vocal experimentation.

Person writing a YouTube video script on a laptop with notes

How to Start Writing an Effective YouTube Script

When writing a script, it's essential to 

. You're using the document to craft a video they'll enjoy, so the script should speak directly to your viewers.

You need three details to complete this task: who your audience is, the main idea of your video, and the "voice" you want to use.

The first step is simple but worth mentioning: You need a video title or idea before sitting down to write. This helps you stay on topic, grab viewers' attention, and provide the information they crave.

3 Secrets for Writing Click-Worthy YouTube Titles

Imagine writing a video script about credit cards. Using a title like "How to Squeeze More Value Out of Your Credit Card" is a lot more engaging than "How to Use Your Credit Card Wisely." And as you focus on that winning concept — "squeezing" value instead of "using" a credit card — it's easier to write in that engaging perspective.

You should also add the right keywords to your title. It will help you write an even better script that 

It also helps to know who your viewers are before writing a script. This detail is usually related to your YouTube niche. Are you making videos for teen gamers? College students who study abroad? Single dads who seek parenting advice?

With those details in mind, ask yourself what information viewers want or need from the video you're planning. Then try to deliver that value.

. And the best way to do that is by researching their daily challenges, joys, and desires. Then you can craft a video that solves a problem or intensifies their joys.

Most of this research happens on YouTube, 

so click here to learn the basics of keyword research

. You'll learn how often people search for your video's topic, the words they use when searching, and related topics you can use to build out the video.

Every YouTube creator has a "voice." Maybe you're the "jester" who cracks jokes and makes people laugh. Or perhaps you're the "adventurer" who takes people on a journey with action-packed scenes.

Whatever your voice is, use it when writing scripts for YouTube videos. It'll help you stand out and attract the right kind of viewers — people who like your personality and hit subscribe.

YouTube Script Template: 4-Part Structure

Now that you know your video's topic, voice, and target audience, you can start outlining a script.

Luckily you don't have to build this from scratch. You can use a well-known YouTube video script format and then personalize it for your content.

Alina Iatiuc, creative producer at vidIQ, writes scripts for the vidIQ channel. 

 she uses, plus a few tips to make it your own:

Section 1: Creating a Powerful Video Hook/Intro

The "hook" is the first sentence or two that catches the viewers' attention in a video. It should be one of three things: entertaining, emotional, or informative. If you can do all three, that's even better.

Another thing you want to do is present the main problem you're solving.

For example, we have a YouTube script titled "Trick Anyone into Watching Your Videos." The video hook introduces the problem (no one is watching your videos), promises a solution, entertains viewers, and taps into their emotions:

"Warning! This video will help you learn to hack peoples' minds and trick anyone into watching your videos using science and proven facts."

The hook is brief, engaging, and makes the viewer curious enough to keep watching. Press play below to see what we mean!

But there's more than one way to do this. 

In fact, here are eight ideas to hook viewers in the first eight seconds.

This is where you'll write the bulk of your content. For example, you might have 5-10 main points for your video. One by one, you'll give each point a subheader and write the words you want to say for that section.

Don't forget to add information that might be useful, including research and statistics, to support your claims.

"One of the most common mistakes people make when writing a script is not doing enough research and fact-checking," Alina says. "Sharing misleading information will not help build trust with your audience. Moreover, it can destroy a good reputation you've already built."

There should be a clear call to action at the end of every video. Some creators ask for feedback in the form of likes, subscriptions, comments, and shares. Some even encourage people to sign up for their email newsletter. You should write your call to action in a way that drives viewers to your chosen destination.

A YouTube end screen is an interactive outro that appears in the last 5-20 seconds of a video. You can place clickable elements on an end screen, such as links to a website, a subscribe button, or extra videos for viewers to watch.

YouTube end screen elements showing clickable video suggestions

End screens and CTAs go hand-in-hand. You'll use the CTA to bring viewers' attention to the end screen, and you'll use the end screen itself to send viewers where you want them to go.

For example, here's a CTA and end screen paired together:

"If you want to get people to watch more of your content — essentially free videos — then watch this video over here (points to end-screen element showing clickable video)." And by doing that, you're giving me free views!"

Script Writing Tips to Boost Viewer Engagement

There's planning a video script, and then there's doing the actual writing. Here's how to make sure what you write becomes an entertaining video.

Long sentences are difficult to read, hear, and understand. That's why you should write shorter sentences for your video script and keep things casual. You'll reduce the information viewers hear so they can follow your train of thought.

 sentence to be brief. Vary the length of your sentences, so they flow like a natural conversation between friends.

Writing in the present tense creates a sense of urgency. You'll communicate in the here and now, grabbing viewers' attention to keep them engaged.

YouTube is pretty laid-back, so use simple words and phrases anyone can understand. You don't want to sound like you're delivering an academic speech or giving a research presentation.

At the same time, don't make your script so informal that it sounds off-putting.

4. Use More Active Voice Than Passive Voice

, the subject of a sentence performs an action on something else – a person, idea, or thing. A sentence written in the passive voice doesn't reveal the subject upfront, which gets confusing.

Joseph adopted three puppies last winter, and they're growing fast.

: Three puppies were adopted by Joseph last winter, and they're growing fast.

The passive sentence requires more effort to understand.

Remove unnecessary words, sentences, and scenes from your script if they don't add to the story.

Humor adds a cheery, light-hearted tone to your video. Just don't go overboard by cracking offensive jokes that make people feel uncomfortable.

Good writing doesn't happen overnight, so read your script and revise it until you're satisfied.

It's helpful to get feedback before publishing a YouTube video. You can ask friends and family what they think or get serious feedback from a scriptwriter.

. Anyone can sit down and create a vision for their YouTube video, from the storyline to the spoken words to the special effects sprinkled on top.

Creator reviewing and editing a YouTube script on computer

But to create outstanding scripts, you do need to be an expert in one thing: 

prioritizing your viewers and no one else

"A YouTube video script is engaging when a content creator understands their audience and writes for the people and not for the ego," Alina says. "Before starting to write a script, I ask myself: "What is the problem I want to help my audience solve? How can I solve it so that people find the solution helpful?"

Script Templates for Different Video Types

YouTube videos come in many styles. For tutorials, list clear steps with timestamps. Start by stating the problem and then show each step so your viewers know what comes next.

 use a loose outline. Write down scene ideas and key points. This way, your style stays natural while you cover all the topics.

, set up your script like a short lesson. Introduce the topic, share your main points with examples or demos, and finish with a quick recap. Mark important times to make editing easier.

 keep your viewpoint clear. Begin with your main idea, share facts or examples, mention other viewpoints, and wrap up with your final thoughts.

 stick to a set format. Introduce the item, talk about your experience, list the good and bad points, compare it to other options, and give your final recommendation.

Now that you've learned how to write scripts that make viewers stick, how about 

Man adjusting camera on tripod preparing to photograph blue sports car outdoors

Learn how to write engaging YouTube video scripts that boost retention. Follow our step-by-step format.

How to Write a YouTube Video Script That Keeps Viewers Watching

Thanks to TikTok's increasing popularity, it’s now possible to 

. You can do this in many ways, such as receiving video tips, making money from live streams, and using brand deals to increase your revenue.

But those are just a few options. In this guide, we’ll explain:

Step 1: Join the TikTok Creator Next Program

Creator Next is an exclusive program for TikTok influencers who want to monetize their audience. It’s the gateway to 

 monetization tool on the platform, so apply for Creator Next first.

Be based in the U.S., U.K., Germany, France, Italy, or Spain.

Have a TikTok account that’s in good standing (follows 

Have a personal TikTok account (not a business account).

If you meet the requirements, you’ll gain access to tools that help you develop your channel and make money from TikTok: the Creator Marketplace, the Creator Fund, Video Gifts, Live Gifts, and Tips.

But more on that later. The first step is applying for TikTok Creator Next!

Creator Next: How to Apply for Monetization on TikTok

1. Open the TikTok app and tap the profile icon.

TikTok Monetization: All the Ways to Earn Through Creator Next

In this section, we’ll dive deeper and explain the monetization tools in the Creator Next program.

1. Earn Money Through the TikTok Creator Fund

TikTok pays creators from a large collection of money called the Creator Fund. In 2020, the fund was expected to pay creators at least $200 billion in its first year. Now it’s estimated to reach $1 billion or more.

How much you’ll get paid depends on many factors, such as the region you live in, if your content is original or not, the engagement rate on your videos, and more.

But, be warned: One critique of the Creator Fund is that it takes 

 of views to cover your entire livelihood.

So if you're wondering how much money you can make from TikTok — and you're a small creator — the figure is closer to side-hustle pay.

 explains that she made $937 in one month from the Creator Fund, which is nothing to sneeze at. And she accomplished that with 25,000 followers.

“I feel like people overgeneralize that the TikTok Creator Fund doesn’t pay you anything, but it kind of does,” Jessica says. “It fluctuates a lot. So you can’t rely on the Creator Fund as a primary source of income, but it’s a nice little bonus here and there."

To make money from the Creator Fund, you should meet five requirements:

Be accepted into the Creator Next Program.

Have at least 10,000 followers on your TikTok channel.

Have at least 100,000 video videos in the last 30 days.

Have an account based in the U.S., and make sure it’s in good standing.

: Videos you made prior to getting monetized through the Creator Fund aren’t eligible for compensation; neither are live streams, duets, and stitches.

Make sure you’re in the Creator Next program, then follow these steps to apply for the Creator Fund:

Live streaming is another way to make money with your channel, particularly through LIVE Gifts.

TikTok viewers send you virtual gifts during a live stream (shown above). These gifts are typically fun animations and stickers.

TikTok awards you a number of “Diamonds” based on how many gifts you received and the popularity of your live.

Redeem Diamonds for real money. You’ll get 50% of the revenue while TikTok receives the other half.

Here are the requirements to receive LIVE Gifts:

Live in a location where LIVE Gifts are available.

Have an account that’s at least 30 days old and in good standing.

Video Gifts allow you to make money on individual TikTok videos. It’s similar to receiving LIVE gifts, in that:

Viewers tap the gift icon in the comment section to send animations and stickers.

TikTok awards you a number of Diamonds based on the amount of gifts you received and your video’s performance.

Only videos with a gift icon have this option. Also, viewers 

 send gifts for duets, stitches, advertisements, sponsored content, promoted posts or videos violating TikTok’s community guidelines.

Plus, you'll need to meet these requirements to receive Video Gifts:

Have published a video in the last 30 days.

Have an account that’s in good standing.

Make sure you’re in the Creator Next program, then follow these steps to turn on Video Gifts:

Tap the menu icon in the top-right corner.

4. Get a Brand Deal Through the TikTok Creator Marketplace

The Creator Marketplace is where companies go to find influencers for paid campaigns.

TikTok logo on smartphone screen next to scattered US dollar bills representing revenue.

Are you a TikTok creator? Want to make money from your videos? If the answer is yes, use this guide to monetize your short-form content.

How to Make Money on TikTok as a Creator [Step by Step]

Getting views on a YouTube video is challenging, but it’s definitely not impossible. Once you master a two-part process, it’s easy to hook viewers:

Create a bold thumbnail that makes people stop scrolling

Write an intriguing title so viewers want to click your video

 content. For example, what do you think most viewers do at the end of a video? Do they watch more content from the same channel, or do they leave to see what else YouTube has to offer?

As a growing creator, you want people to watch as many videos as possible. You want to satisfy them, make them binge your content, and show the YouTube algorithm your channel is worth promoting.

There’s a way to make it happen, but only if you know a simple YouTube trick.

First, Understand Your ‘Average Views Per Viewer’

Before we share our little trick, there’s something you should know: YouTube tells you whether your content is binge-worthy or not.

You can find this data in the YouTube Studio. It tells you if people watch multiple videos in a row or leave without watching more.

That leads us to an important metric called 

, or AVPV for short. AVPV represents the number of videos each unique viewer watches on your channel (on average).

For example, let’s say your channel’s AVPV is three. That means the average viewer watches three videos on your channel before leaving.

But why is AVPV so critical on YouTube? Well, the higher this number goes, the better you are at convincing people to watch multiple videos. In fact, if your AVPV is somewhere around the number 1, 

that means people leave your channel after watching one video

The survey below shows that many creators have an AVPV of 1 to 1.4. So it’s in everyone's interest to boost that figure.

How to Find Your ‘Average Views Per Viewer’ on YouTube

Now that you understand AVPV, here’s how to find yours on YouTube:

2. Adjust the time period for the last full month you have data on. This switches your data points to the last 12 months of channel performance.

4. Click the blue plus button to add another metric. Choose 

 column to sort your performance over the last 12 months.

It's hard to grow a YouTube channel when viewers leave after watching one video. Use this simple trick to suggest more content and make them binge watch!

Lydia Sweatt

Posts Written By Lydia Sweatt

The Creator Feed Podcast: Why Learning the Creator Economy Is Worth it

How to Write a YouTube Video Script That Keeps Viewers Watching

How to Make Money on TikTok as a Creator [Step by Step]

A Simple Trick to Make Viewers Watch Multiple YouTube Videos

YouTube Intros: 8 Ways to Hook Viewers In the First 8 Seconds

4 YouTube Updates That Will Help You Get Monetized Faster

Meet Tim Schmoyer, Your New YouTube Coach at vidIQ

YouTube Will Recommend Long-Form Videos to Shorts Viewers [Algorithm Update]

3 Secrets for Writing Click-Worthy YouTube Titles

Brooklyn and Bailey Get 11M Views During Challenge to End Period Poverty

How to Find Your Biggest Competitors on YouTube

So Far, These Are MrBeast's Most Impressive YouTube Stats