One of the great, eternal mysteries of the internet is the YouTube algorithm. 

 of the content consumed on YouTube comes directly from recommendations, so it’s easy to understand why creators and marketers are obsessed with figuring it out.

Although nobody (not even YouTube themselves) has a full understanding of how it works, certain factors do influence it more than others. But to understand the algorithm, we must start from the beginning.

How to Grow Your YouTube Channel in 2024: The Ultimate Guide

In the beginning, there was no algorithm. It was all about gaining credibility as a platform for YouTube. Since everything revolved around views, YouTube’s first algorithm strove to recommend videos that attracted the most clicks. The more people clicked on a video, the more it would appear for others to click on, too. Soon, malpractices around using tags became common, and YouTube stepped in.

YouTube changed its algorithm in favor of video watch time

 because they thought time viewed was the true test of quality. But, soon enough, creators found loopholes like view-botting their content or making long videos with no value. This led the algorithm to change again around 2015-16.

Through surveys, YouTube collected data from users to understand what kind of videos “satisfy” them the most, and with their 

sophisticated AI developed the recommendation system

. As a result, YouTube began to suggest videos that each viewer would be more likely to watch, rather than videos that other people were viewing. And the outcomes—well, they were really excellent! So much so, that YouTube hasn’t announced major changes to the algorithm since.

In 2025, YouTube introduced significant updates to its recommendation system, shifting focus from traditional performance metrics to personalized user engagement and satisfaction. 

For the algorithm to recommend videos to a user, there are two steps involved. First, it rates videos based on their performance analytics. Then, it matches videos to users based on past viewing habits and comparable material. Matching people with the content they want to watch is the objective.

The YouTube algorithm isn't a singular entity, but a combination several systems on the platform. These different algorithms appear in different areas of YouTube and have different factors influencing them.

 You can see recommendations from the algorithm in 3 main areas of YouTube:

How is it that YouTube already knows what you want to watch from the moment you’re on the website? That’s because your homepage is curated just for you!

Showing high engagement (watch time, likes, comments, etc.)

That’s why, as a creator, it’s so important to get people watching your videos so your channel is always in their watch history. Then you can find ways to keep them watching longer and engaging more frequently.

Depending on someone’s viewing habits, they may also see videos related to their location, language, or other demographics.

These are the videos recommended alongside the video you’re already watching, on the right side of your screen. The YouTube algorithm takes into account a number of variables, including your topic of interest, liked channels, and your watch history, to provide a customized list of videos for the recommended area.

In a nutshell, the algorithm compiles a list of videos that you could find interesting and relevant by analyzing your behavior on the website.

So how do you persuade YouTube to suggest your videos to more viewers? Start by observing the “suggested” column next to your competitors’ content. If YouTube is recommending specific videos there, try filming your own version of that content so you can get recommended too!

How does YouTube decide which videos should go on a search page? Based on user behavior and keywords, the system narrows down the enormous video library to a limited number and then ranks them according to engagement metrics and relevancy. YouTube makes sure that users get the greatest search results by balancing relevancy and popularity.

 are important here. However, because the system takes into account personalized signals, each user's search results may vary significantly.

Videos with better engagement metrics and potential, such as views, shares, likes, and comments, are given priority in search results, but YouTube also makes sure that fresh content from new channels isn't unfairly eclipsed by popular YouTubers. The platform adds a certain amount of randomization and can show diverse results that are still relevant to the search query.

The main goal of YouTube’s algorithm is to keep viewers on the website for as long as possible, so be sure to optimize your content for this crucial area of the platform.

YouTube doesn’t spray your video out to the whole platform and cross its fingers. It moves strategically, starting with the people most likely to care, then expanding only if your content keeps delivering. Here's how it plays out:

These are your ride-or-dies—the viewers who show up almost every time you post. Usually subscribers, but not always. Some people just watch everything you make, even without subscribing.

, you won’t have this group yet. YouTube has to take a best guess based on your video’s topic. No traction usually means there’s not enough info yet to find your people.

Next are the occasional viewers. They know your content, but don’t watch everything. Maybe they caught a few past uploads, maybe they’re subscribed but don’t tune in often.

If the video’s still doing well, YouTube shows it to people who are into the same general subject. So, if your video is about photography, it’ll start appearing in front of viewers who already watch photography content.

Next, the algorithm widens the net to audiences in closely related fields. A photography video might now reach fans of videography or graphic design—areas that overlap enough to still be relevant.

The next jump takes your video to people who are into content that’s barely related to those nearby fields. Think animation, motion graphics, or web design. Still in the creative zone, but getting more distant.

Eventually, it hits a point where your content no longer connects. Maybe now it's showing your video to people into programming or cybersecurity—still technically connected through a chain of interests, but too far removed. If the video starts flopping at this stage, the algorithm stops pushing it.


The algorithm moves outward in layers, only if your video keeps hitting. It’s not about going viral overnight—it’s about climbing step by step, keeping each audience engaged as you go.

It’s safe to say the YouTube algorithm won’t be changing its core function in the future. While metrics like click-through rates (CTR) and watch time remain relevant, the algorithm now prioritizes user satisfaction indicators. These include likes, comments, and survey feedback, which provide insights into the value viewers derive from content. Additionally, the system considers viewer retention patterns, recognizing that both short, impactful videos and longer, engaging content have their place, depending on audience preferences. Encouraging return visits and sustained engagement has become crucial for creators aiming to thrive under the new algorithm.

In the past, we've stressed the importance of watch time and engagement to get ahead with the algorithm. But the way to look at the YouTube algorithm going forward is beyond a single metric. Many aspects now influence the impact of your video, as opposed to earlier days. For example, traditionally we would associate the packaging of a video with the title and thumbnail but now, particularly for mobile users, the first 10 seconds of your video, which is called a visual hook, is equally important.

The integration of advanced AI labels in content evaluation has also changed things up a bit. Beyond basic categorization, AI analyzes the nuances of content, including style and target audience, to ensure precise recommendations. The system evaluates the tone, emotions, and delivery style, aligning them with viewer expectations and preferences. and production factors editing quality, pacing, and overall structure are assessed to determine suitability for different audience segments.

Considering all the above will be increasingly important for getting the algorithm working for you. So, implement them to the best of your abilities.

Remember, the algorithm’s job is to provide the perfect content to each viewer, without creator or content bias. So, stop making videos for the algorithm! Instead, aim to satisfy that 

, and you’ve got the algorithm playing for your team! 

Magnified view of Safari browser window displaying YouTube homepage with navigation menu.

Unlock the mystery of the YouTube Algorithm with our in-depth guide. Dive into its evolution and learn how the algorithm personalizes home page curation, suggests relevant videos, and more.

Understanding the YouTube Algorithm in 2025

When it comes to YouTube growth, thumbnails aren’t just an accessory—they’re one of the most important factors in whether someone clicks on your video. A strong design can dramatically improve your click-through rate and help your content stand out in a crowded feed. That’s why following proven YouTube thumbnail design tips is essential.

Best Practices for Creating YouTube Thumbnails

Let’s break down the YouTube thumbnail design best practices you should apply in 2025 and beyond.

Your thumbnail needs to deliver a clear message in a split second. Overloading it with too many details, colors, or text can be overwhelming, especially when viewed on smaller screens like mobile phones. Stick to one focal point and keep the design clean. Minimalist thumbnails are often the most effective.

Text on thumbnails can be incredibly effective—if done right. Use large, bold fonts that stand out against the background. Avoid cramming too many words; instead, aim for short, snappy phrases that intrigue viewers. Contrast is essential. If your background is dark, make sure your text is light, and vice versa.

thumbnail should immediately grab attention

, even when it’s displayed alongside hundreds of others. High-contrast color combinations make your thumbnail impossible to ignore. Try pairing complementary colors or using shades that stand out against YouTube’s default red, black, and white palette.

Drops of red, blue, and yellow dye dispersing in water, forming soft gradients and swirls.

Thumbnails that feature human faces—especially ones that show strong emotions—tend to get higher engagement. Whether it’s excitement, surprise, or curiosity, showing a human expression can create an instant connection with potential viewers.

One great trick for building brand recognition is to use a consistent style for all your thumbnails. This could include specific color schemes, text placement, or the use of your logo in a corner. Over time, viewers will come to recognize your videos at a glance, making it more likely they’ll click on your content.


vidIQ YouTube channel showing consistent thumbnails

For example, the vidIQ channel uses recurring styles across thumbnails, with faces, bold fonts, and clean layouts. This consistent branding helps viewers identify videos at a glance.

Even with great YouTube thumbnail design tips, there are pitfalls to watch out for:

Never use misleading images that have nothing to do with your video’s content. This will only frustrate viewers, hurt your channel’s reputation, and lead to a high bounce rate—something YouTube’s algorithm won’t like.

You don’t want to clutter your thumbnail with unnecessary text. Keep it short and to the point. Let the title of your video do the talking, and use text on your thumbnail sparingly.

: More than half of YouTube’s traffic comes from mobile devices, so always ensure your thumbnails are legible on small screens. If you’re adding text, make sure it’s large and bold enough to read easily on a smartphone.

: A blurry or pixelated thumbnail can significantly reduce your video’s chances of getting clicked. Always use high-resolution images, and if you’re unsure, err on the side of larger file sizes (up to 2MB) rather than sacrificing quality.

Tips for Testing and Optimizing Thumbnails

Even the best designs need testing. YouTube lets you update thumbnails after publishing, so don’t be afraid to experiment.

Try switching between different thumbnails on the same video and track their performance in YouTube Analytics. This way, you can identify which design drives more clicks.

 Pay attention to the Click-Through Rate (CTR) of your videos. A higher CTR means more people are engaging with your content, which helps boost your visibility in YouTube’s algorithm.

 Beyond the CTR, also look at how long people are watching your video. If your audience is dropping off quickly after clicking, your thumbnail might not accurately represent your content.

 for optimizing, testing, and comparing different thumbnail options for the same video by using the above metrics.

Remember: in 2025, 90% of top-performing YouTube videos still rely on custom thumbnails. Applying the latest YouTube thumbnail design tips 2025 can make the difference between a video that gets ignored and one that goes viral.

Nailing your thumbnails is one of the fastest ways to boost visibility, clicks, and subscribers. Whether you’re just starting or refining your strategy, sticking to these YouTube thumbnail design best practices will help your videos stand out on the platform.

Now it’s time to create that killer thumbnail

Illustration of YouTube thumbnails on a smartphone screen, with one bold design highlighted by a green check mark, symbolizing YouTube thumbnail design tips and best practices.

Learn the top YouTube thumbnail design tips and best practices for 2025 to boost clicks, views, and channel growth.

YouTube Thumbnail Design Tips: Best Practices for 2025

So, you’ve started a YouTube channel—or at least fantasized about it. You pictured the vibe: soft lighting, cool camera angles, a quirky mug in hand. You saw yourself vlogging your life, sharing what you know, building a following, maybe even going viral.

Your videos flop. The views crawl. You’ve posted eight times and gained 36 subscribers. You’re Googling “how to beat the YouTube algorithm fast” at 2:00 a.m., wondering if the platform hates you.

Here’s the part most creators won’t say out loud: 

 Really hard.
And if you want to make it, you need to stop dabbling and get serious.

YouTube isn't just competitive—it's a battleground where

 over 500 hours of content are uploaded every minute.

While you're editing your weekly video, thousands of creators worldwide are uploading theirs. The platform receives more content in a single day than traditional television has produced in decades.

The first question every aspiring YouTuber must answer honestly is this: Are you playing around, or are you building something that matters? Both approaches are valid, but they require completely different mindsets and strategies.

Enjoy the creative process without pressure

Focus on personal satisfaction over metrics

Accept that growth will be slow and sporadic

Establish non-negotiable upload schedules

Study analytics and adapt strategies accordingly

Invest time in understanding your audience deeply

The difference between successful creators and those who fade away often comes down to this single decision. Those who treat YouTube as a serious endeavor consistently outperform those who approach it casually.

Arguably, your entire journey on YouTube would be filled with trials and errors, but none more so than the beginning. Early on, your job isn’t to obsess over metrics. Your job is to make stuff, and that's what makes you fall in love with it!

Every successful creator goes through what we call the "YouTube innocence" phase. This is your learning laboratory, where the goal isn't perfection—it's discovery. 

. Learn how lighting affects mood. Experiment with different editing styles. Try talking to the camera until it feels natural. Test various content formats to see what resonates with both you and your emerging audience.

Here's the uncomfortable truth most YouTube guides won't tell you: You don't "find" time for content creation—you manufacture it. Successful creators don't wait for perfect conditions or bursts of motivation.

Block specific hours for filming, editing, and uploading

Treat these commitments as unmovable appointments

Prepare content ideas in advance to eliminate decision fatigue

Create systems that work even during busy periods

When YouTube becomes part of your rhythm—not just a rainy Sunday activity—it starts to shape your life. And that’s when growth actually begins.

How to Craft a Foolproof YouTube Upload Schedule

Let’s be real: doing this successfully takes obsession. Not the burnout kind. The 

You'll know you're entering true creator mode when YouTube begins influencing how you see the world around you.

You'll start noticing lighting in restaurants and thinking about camera angles. You'll hear conversations and wonder if they'd make good video topics. You'll develop an eye for thumbnails everywhere you look. This isn't unhealthy—it's the natural evolution of someone serious about their craft.

It’s tempting to believe the next gadget will change the game.

Serious creators don’t chase tech—they chase clarity. Your $2,000 camera won’t fix a boring message. But a clear idea, told well, with whatever gear you have? That lands.

The viewer doesn’t care if you shoot in 4K. They care if you’re saying something worth their time.

How To Win on YouTube Without Fancy Equipment

People respond to serious creators on YouTube. Yes, even the meme channels, which are serious about making memes!

If you treat your channel like an afterthought, so will everyone else. But if you’re consistent even with 15 subscribers, people notice. Consistency signals commitment. Quality demonstrates respect for your audience's time. Regular uploads prove you're building something sustainable, not just experimenting with video creation.

Every creator hits a turning point. It’s when you stop saying:

That’s when everything shifts. Your channel stops being a maybe. It becomes a mission. The question isn't whether YouTube is hard; it is whether you're in 

 to meet that challenge with the seriousness it deserves.

Struggling to find success on YouTube? This post breaks down the mindset shifts and habits you need to get serious, stand out, and stay consistent.

How To Get Serious About YouTube

Your thumbnail is the first thing viewers see, so creating the best thumbnail for YouTube right is going to make your content pop-out to users. Using the wrong thumbnail size could make it appear blurry or cut off, a sure fire way to get your videos overlooked on YouTube.

Let's cover the exact YouTube thumbnail dimensions, file formats, and best practices to help your thumbnails look sharp on every screen.

12 Types of YouTube Thumbnails People Love to Click On

YouTube Thumbnail Dimensions and Parameters

If your image isn’t naturally fit to become a YouTube thumbnail, try our 

. It instantly formats your thumbnail to the ideal size for YouTube (1280 x 720), making it look sharp and professional.

But size is just one step toward creating the best YouTube thumbnail. You’ll need to consider a few more factors to make your video look professional across all platforms.

Aspect ratio describes the proportional relationship between width and height. The 16:9 aspect ratio is the standard for most visual media, including YouTube and YouTube thumbnails. Using this aspect ratio means your image is 16 units wide for every 9 units tall.

While YouTube long form videos are 16:9, YouTube Shorts are 9:16.

This ratio matches YouTube’s video player and prevents your thumbnail from being cropped, stretched, or distorted.

Your YouTube thumbnail is often the first impression viewers get of your content, showing up in multiple high-traffic areas, including:

YouTube Search Results — Thumbnails appear alongside titles when users search for videos.

YouTube Homepage & Recommended Feed — Your thumbnail competes for attention in the suggestions feed and home screen.

Channel Page — Thumbnails line your video library, impacting how your channel looks to potential subscribers.

Subscriptions Feed — Subscribers see your thumbnail in their feed when you upload new content.

Social Media — When your video is shared outside YouTube, your thumbnail often displays as the preview image.

External Sites — When your video is embedded, your thumbnail will be displayed until the viewer clicks play. And embeds can be any custom size.

Your thumbnail is going to be seen in both large and small formats, and getting the size just right keeps the design uncluttered.


How Do I Make My Thumbnail Look Sharp on All Devices?

Your thumbnail needs to look great on everything from mobile phones to Smart TVs. Here’s how to keep it sharp and clickable everywhere:

Use high-resolution images at the recommended 1280 x 720 pixels.

Stick to supported formats. The ideal choices are:

JPG - which is the typical choice as it has a good quality and, since it’s generally smaller, has a faster loading time

PNG - which is good for higher quality images

Avoid uploading thumbnails smaller than 640 pixels wide.

Test how your thumbnail looks at small sizes because most viewers see it in a tiny preview.

Why Do Simple YouTube Thumbnails Perform Better?

Your thumbnail will appear in crowded spaces like search results, suggested videos, and social feeds, often as a tiny image competing for attention. That’s why clear, uncluttered design makes all the difference.

Quick tips to make your YouTube thumbnails stand out:

Limit text to 3-5 words max, bold and readable on mobile.

Use high contrast colors to help your thumbnail pop.

Focus on one clear subject—don’t overload the image.

Stay consistent with your style to build brand recognition.

Pro Tip: If you are looking to replicate some popular thumbnail designs from your favorite creators, you can do so with 


What About YouTube Shorts Thumbnail Dimensions?

YouTube Shorts videos use a vertical 9:16 aspect ratio, typically 1080 x 1920 pixels. But when uploading a custom thumbnail from a desktop, YouTube applies the standard 1280 x 720 pixel, 16:9 thumbnail.

Currently you cannot upload custom thumbnails for Shorts from a desktop.

YouTube may auto-generate Shorts thumbnails.

In the mobile app, when you edit a Shorts video, you will have the option to pick and edit a thumbnail.

Adding a custom YouTube Shorts thumbnail can be a bit tricky, but we tell you how to do it in 

The right YouTube thumbnail size makes your videos look professional and helps attract more clicks. Stick to the recommended specs, 

 and use tools like vidIQ to streamline the process.

Gold play button with vidIQ logo inside broken golden ruler circle on coral background

Yes, most AI thumbnail makers, including tools like 

, are designed to follow YouTube’s recommended specs by default. They help you create thumbnails at 

Learn the correct YouTube thumbnail measurements for 2025 and how to optimize them for the best quality and viewer engagement!

The Best YouTube Thumbnail Size and Dimensions for 2025

average video length on YouTube still hovers around 11.7 minutes

, even after the meteoric rise of YouTube Shorts and other forms of short-form content. The need for longer content is still quite high, and one of the best ways to capitalize on it is through video essays.

YouTube video essays have exploded in popularity over the past few years, with creators building massive audiences, diving deep into everything from film analysis to social commentary. Yet despite the high interest in becoming a video essayist, there's a surprising lack of real, actionable advice online about how to actually succeed in this space.

So, today, we'll explore how you can go about achieving this successfully as a YouTube creator. Let's get started!

How to Create a YouTube Tutorial Video: Full Guide

A video essay is an essay that is presented in a visual format instead of the conventional written method. It pretty has the same components as a standard essay, consisting of 

an introduction, a main body (which may be divided into sections), and a conclusion.

Walk through YouTube video essays, and you'll find countless videos rehashing the same tired takes. 

"The Last Jedi ruined Star Wars." "Marvel movies are formulaic."

The issue isn't having these opinions—it's presenting them as fresh insights when they're actually echo chamber repetitions. Viewers can sense when you're simply repackaging existing discourse rather than adding something new to the conversation.

But that doesn't mean your takes need to "stand out" just for the sake of it. Instead of trying to be different for the sake of being different, focus on finding a way of creating videos that only you can make. This isn't about being different—it's about being irreplaceably you.

The Secret to Standing Out as a Small YouTube Creator

Before diving into the how-to, let's clarify what we mean by "voice" in video essays. Your voice isn't about:

Copying another creator's presentation format

: Your authentic self coming through the screen

: The unique understanding you bring to topics

To develop your voice, you need to identify three core elements:

: Your areas of expertise or deep knowledge

: The unique perspective only you can provide

: Experiment with various approaches to see what feels natural. Some creators are naturally analytical, while others are more emotional; some are humorous, while others are serious.

: Initially, it's acceptable to incorporate small elements from creators you admire. Notice how they structure arguments, pace their videos, or present information. But avoid wholesale copying.

: After each video, ask yourself: "Did this feel like me? What parts felt forced? What came naturally?"

: Your voice will develop and change as you create more content. Embrace this evolution rather than trying to lock yourself into a rigid style.

Let's get on with the uncomfortable truth that many aspiring video essayists don't want to hear: 

You cannot provide insightful analysis when you have no insight.

Too many creators jump into making video essays about topics they understand only at a surface level. They watch a few other videos, read some Reddit threads, and think they're ready to contribute meaningfully to the discourse.

Before you make your first video essay, ask yourself:

Have I studied beyond surface-level takes?

Can I offer perspectives that aren't already widely available?

If the answer to any of these is "no," you're not ready to make that video yet—and that's okay.

Choosing Your Niche: Become a Student First

The path to becoming a respected video essayist starts with becoming a dedicated student. Here's how:

Choose a topic you're either deeply passionate about or willing to dedicate yourself to learning inside and out. This could be:

Film analysis (specific genres, directors, or eras)

Once you've chosen your focus, immerse yourself completely:

Take online courses from reputable institutions

Join communities of serious students and practitioners

Becoming truly knowledgeable enough to offer valuable insights takes time—often years. This isn't a shortcut to YouTube fame; it's a commitment to expertise.

The goal is to become someone with significantly more insight than the average person interested in your topic. Only then can you offer something genuinely valuable.

Your voice isn't something you can pick off a shelf or decide on in advance. As the saying goes about wands at Ollivander's, "the voice chooses the creator." Finding yours requires experimentation and patience.

The 54 Best YouTube Niches, According to Viewers

Step-by-Step: How to Make a Great Video Essay

If you've followed along so far, you now know the headspace needed to become a YouTube video essay creator. Now, let's get you ready for your first video upload!

What makes a good YouTube video essay? Here's everything you need to know about voice, research, scripting, editing, and building a lasting channel.

YouTube Tips for Creators

Understanding the YouTube Algorithm in 2025

YouTube Thumbnail Design Tips: Best Practices for 2025

How To Get Serious About YouTube

The Best YouTube Thumbnail Size and Dimensions for 2025

How to Create a YouTube Video Essay: Full Guide

How to See Your Subscribers on YouTube

25 Reasons Why Viewers Are Not Watching Your Videos (And How to Fix Them)

The YouTuber’s Guide to Consistency Without Creative Burnout

3 Secrets to Improve YouTube Audience Retention

How to Make YouTube Vlogs

8 Fatal Mistakes That Can Kill Your YouTube Dreams

Do YouTube Niches Disappear?