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.

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

Writing a description for your YouTube video is never a bad idea. It helps people understand your content and the value it holds, which leads to a better viewing experience. You can even place keywords in your description and possibly get featured on search pages.

The only problem? Writing descriptions from scratch is time-consuming. And besides a basic summary of the video, what else goes in that big, empty box?

To answer that question, here's how to write descriptions for YouTube videos.

1. Get Ideas from a YouTube Description Generator

If you want to come up with descriptions fast and easy, try vidIQ's 

. It allows you to type in keywords that describe your video, see a few description options, and choose the right one for your content. Best of all, you get 

 each month when you sign up for a free vidIQ account.

Here's how to get (and use) the AI Description Generator:

3. Give your video a title. If you have vidIQ installed, use our AI title generator to get a few suggestions.

4. Scroll down to the description box and find the AI Description Generator.

Type in a few keywords that describe your video and click 

5. Review the AI-generated descriptions (there are three). When you find a description you like, click 

2. Use the Right Keywords for YouTube's Search Engine

Do you know which keywords people will use to find your video? If so, add those terms to your video description. That will help YouTube determine what your video is about and display it on the right search pages. You videos might even 

 into your summary, not poured. It's best to write like a human speaking to another human and add keywords sparingly.

We used two keywords in the example above: "small channel on YouTube" and "grow your channel." The summary sounds natural, and 

If you don't know where to start, read this guide for discovering the best YouTube keywords.

YouTube never shows the full video description — at least not automatically. You could spend 30 minutes writing hundreds of words, but no matter what, viewers will only see the first few sentences. After that, a "show more" link allows them to keep reading.

Unfortunately, some viewers don't click on that. That's why it's a good idea to  put vital information in the first 100 characters, such as:

 On a search page, YouTube shows the first 90 characters of our video description.

But below the video itself, viewers see the first 160 characters.

To optimize your description in both areas, write an interesting 100 characters!

Did you know that the YouTube description box holds 5,000 characters? It's unlikely you'll need that much space, and no viewer wants to read paragraphs of text. After all, they came to watch a video.

That begs the question: What's the ideal YouTube video description length? There isn't an answer that fits all scenarios, but you can stop writing as soon as you've covered:

What viewers need to know about the video

Information related to the video (research you used, downloadable resources, etc.)

Have you ever read a YouTube description that didn't explain the video? You probably had no idea what to expect before pressing play, especially if the creator was trying to be funny, random, or aloof.

That approach may work with subscribers who already know you, but what about new viewers? They should be able to understand a video just by reading the title or description.

 You can be funny and authentic, but try to write descriptions that build upon the video title.

6. Use Timestamps to Make Your Video Skimmable

If your video is longer than 20 minutes, some viewers will need extra encouragement to watch it. Luckily, YouTube creates automatic video chapters that let viewers skip around and find different scenes.

But if someone moves away from the video to read the description, you might consider adding timestamps to that area.

When someone clicks a timestamp, the video jumps to the chapter that's available in that time frame. To make this work in your description, type the exact time you want viewers to skip to, and bam — the timestamp becomes clickable.

7. Add Links to Your YouTube Video Description

After you've written the bulk of your description, it's time to add a few links. These should direct people to videos or websites that add more value to the experience while also boosting your channel's authority.

Research links that support your video content, such as studies or surveys

Affiliate links that allow viewers to buy products mentioned in the video

Viewers need a good reason to click on the links in your description box. So when you have a few links in mind, add a CTA nearby explaining why they should click something and what happens when they do.

Check out the example below. Two of our CTAs clearly explain the value behind the links we're pushing. With the first CTA, we want to help viewers 

 by watching another video on our channel. The second CTA expresses that if you want more YouTube guidance, it's wise to hit subscribe!

9. Put Hashtags in Your YouTube Description

Adding two or three hashtags to your video description is a fantastic idea. If you create content people love — and relevant hashtags are attached — you might see your videos at the top of a hashtag page.

Out of 63,000 videos and 11,000 channels, we managed to get two videos at the top of YouTube's #growyourchannel page. So don't skip this vital step!

Most people strive to make original content on YouTube, but that rule applies to more than just videos. If you're copying descriptions from one video to the next, that becomes repetitious — and entirely unhelpful.

 with repetitive content will be hard. YouTube checks everything when you apply to the 

11. Avoid Profanity, Hate Speech, and Spammy Links

Now that you know YouTube checks your video descriptions, try to write words that make people feel safe. You can start by following the 

, which denounce profanity, hate speech, spam, and more.

If the idea of writing descriptions from scratch sounds daunting, we have good news: You don't have to.

Here's the video description template we use for the vidIQ channel:

 Describe your video (don't forget to add keywords).

 Tell viewers what to watch next on your channel (add video link).

 Add other important links (website, social media, affiliate, etc.).

And now, here's a written example of a video description. We paired it with the video, "

FINALLY, you're joining the YouTube adventure! We've been on that ride for 10+ years, so here's what we would do if we started a new YouTube channel in 2022!

🔥 Now you've started your channel, get your first subscriber! ➡️ [link goes here]

🔔 Subscribe for more tips just like this: [link goes here]

🚀 - DOWNLOAD vidIQ FREE: [link goes here]

🛠️ - vidIQ CUSTOMER SUPPORT: support@vidIQ.com

What goes in the description box for a YouTube video? At the very least, you need the right links, trending hashtags, and an awesome summary of your video content.

YouTube Video Descriptions: How to Write Them Better In 2024

You know the importance of having a video script if you're a YouTuber. It helps you organize your thoughts and tell an engaging story. 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's a YouTube Video Script?

A script is a document that describes what will happen in your video. It includes details about the characters, plot, action, and setting.

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.

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.

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, 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:

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.

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!"

Writing Tips: 8 Ways to Make Your Script More Engaging

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.

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?"

Want to write video scripts for YouTube? Here's how to format the document and create better stories for your audience.

How to Write an Entertaining YouTube Video Script

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.

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.

Posts Written By Lydia Sweatt

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How to Write an Entertaining YouTube Video Script

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

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Meet Tim Schmoyer, Your New YouTube Coach at vidIQ

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