Ask any YouTuber and they will tell you that generating significant views and subscribers isn't easy. But with the right strategy and tools, any video creator can build an engaged subscriber base when they understand what those subscribers want to watch.

Appealing to an audience to watch content you are passionate about making is just the first step, you need to know how to reach them and get your videos discovered. Our guides to how to guide more views on YouTube will give you the best tips to succeed on the platform.

Getting Views

How To Get More Views on YouTube

Getting thousands or even millions of YouTube subscribers is a dream for most creators. In the articles below, we'll show you how to turn casual viewers into long-term fans. 

Subscribers

YouTube Subscribers

Do you want to make money on YouTube? Millions of creators are earning a very good living from monetizing the platform and uploading content that drives huge views and engagements. Whether that YouTube income is from advertising revenue, merchandise sales, or brand deals, or subscriptions, we keep you updated with best practices and ideas.

Monetization

How To Make Money on YouTube

Want to see how your channel is performing? Read these YouTube analytics articles to discover what's working and what isn't. You'll learn how to identify which videos have the most Watch Time, clicks, audience retention, revenue, and more.

Analytics

YouTube Analytics

Watch Time is arguably THE most important metric on YouTube right now, and creators won’t be able to monetize their content without 4000 hours of it. But what is it and how can creators increase the amount of Watch Time their videos attract? We keep you updated on the best practices around Watch Time, and how you can increase how much your video content generates.

Watch Time

YouTube Watch Time

YouTube Shorts content is set to explode! 

All the latest tips, tricks, and rock-solid advice you need for this new feature.

YouTube Shorts

Do you know how to do keyword research so you understand what videos people are actually searching for on YouTube? Do you know how to create a custom YouTube thumbnail? Do you know how to create a Playlist on YouTube?

vidIQ has a ton of tips that will help every creator maximise their video content. We publish content every week to keep you up to date with all the best practices.

Tips & Tricks

YouTube Tips & Tricks

At vidIQ we have incredible insights into what viewers are searching for on YouTube. Not only can we confirm the top keywords being searched for, we can also show you how you can leverage that interest to create content around trending topics and tentpole events. That's going to give you a clear edge over other creators!

Insights

YouTube Insights

Your In-Depth Guide to Building a Successful YouTube Channel

We’ve been hard at work refining our tools that help creators grow, and this summer’s drop is proof that vidIQ today isn’t what it was even three months ago.

a brand-new feature and other major updates

 - all built to help you stop the scroll, boost engagement, and turn casual viewers into loyal fans.

 you’ll want to experience the new power we’ve packed in.

One of the biggest struggles for creators is getting viewers to click on their content. With millions of videos out there, you need to stand out in a pool of endless scrolling.

Stopping the scroll is more of a science than an art. And like all sciences, you need tools to accomplish your goals. You haven’t seen vidIQ tools like this. Smarter AI. Faster workflows. Real results.

. This tool is like your own personal AI-powered design studio.

If you’ve been in the YouTube game for more than five minutes, you understand that 

 and best way to stop the scroll. A great thumbnail is clear, compelling, and makes viewers think, “I need to click this.”

Now it’s easier than ever to make thumbnails that 

. Whether you start with a prompt or upload your own assets, our AI builds out designs that look pro — without you needing any Photoshop skills.

 (we’ll remove backgrounds automatically)

 to match a visual style you love. Upload your own or choose from our library of top-performing YouTube templates. 

 to influence your thumbnail’s aesthetic

 with easy prompt tweaks, image edits, or by dropping in text

Thumbnails aren’t just art - they’re strategy. They’re decision points. The better your thumbnail, the higher your click-through rate. And a higher CTR means the algorithm actually works for you.

, you’re not just making something that 

 good — you’re making something that 

You stopped the scroll with killer thumbnails. Now keep them watching.

 helps you write stronger YouTube scripts in a fraction of the time, backed by real YouTube psychology.

: Continuously trained on what’s working 

: Include callback cues, pacing variations, and cliffhangers

: Adjust your scripts’ tone, add keywords, sound more like your favorite creator. All with one click.

 Automated research provides accurate and relevant information and stats.

 helps keep your message clear, your viewers hooked, and your content performing. And now, it doesn’t have to take days. With 

, you can go from idea to polished script in just 3 minutes - making it easier to publish consistently and keep your channel growing.

“I used to spend an hour and a half scripting videos that came out wordy and boring. Someone even commented saying my videos were 'so wordy' — that really stung. But vidIQ's Script Writer changed everything. Now I get organized, concise scripts in just 10–15 minutes.”

“When I used it for my next tutorial, I was so impressed I printed it out to study it. For creators like me who tend to over-explain on camera, this tool does wonders.”

Shorts are still one of the fastest paths to YouTube growth - but understanding why one takes off while another flops? That used to be a mystery.

We built our Shorts tools to tell you exactly what’s working, what’s not, and how to make your next one blow up.

Think of it as your personal highlight reel, performance breakdown, and growth strategist all in one. Now you can discover when a video truly gained popularity and understand what made them successful. 

All of these statistics can be seen directly in-line without having to exit the Shorts view:

including views & views per hour, engagement rate, views history graph, and outlier score.

including channel subscriber count, monthly & total uploads, and subscriber and view growth graphs. 

 now supports YouTube Shorts, giving you even more insight into what’s trending and outperforming expectations across the platform. 

Instead of just surfacing the most-viewed content, Outliers identifies videos that are gaining momentum relative to the creator’s usual performance. That means you’re seeing videos that are beating the odds, not just riding on big subscriber counts. 

Now that this includes Shorts, it’s an incredibly powerful way to discover smart video ideas, fresh angles, and unexpected winners across any niche.

Let’s say you search for a keyword like “budget travel.” Outliers might surface a Short from a smaller creator that’s getting unusually high engagement and rapid growth, even outperforming videos from much larger channels. That’s your signal: something in that format, topic, or style is connecting. Use it to guide your next idea, ride the wave, and post with confidence.

 now works with YouTube Shorts, giving short-form creators the same data-backed recommendations long-form creators have used to increase views and visibility.

Optimize analyzes your video and delivers clear, actionable recommendations for improving your title and adding the right tags to your description. You’ll also get an overall optimization score, so you can instantly see how well your content is aligned with what’s working — and where there’s room to improve.

Most Shorts get lost in a sea of swipes. To rise to the top you need smart packaging. Optimize helps ensure your content gets the visibility it deserves, boosting your chances of landing on the Shorts feed, reaching new audiences, and turning quick views into long-term growth.

 can now submit a video for personalized feedback from one of our expert creator coaches.

A coach will watch your video and record a response, pausing at key moments to explain what’s working, what’s not, and what changes could help you get more views and subscribers. You’ll see the exact moment-by-moment breakdown behind every suggestion. No vague advice, just direct, actionable advice.


Our initial rollout supports Boost users in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Australia, and New Zealand, for English language videos only.

__________________________________________________________________

If you’re looking for more than just one video review, you can work directly with a 

 who will take a deep dive into your entire channel and build a custom-tailored growth plan designed to break through the roadblocks holding you back. 

These aren’t cookie-cutter tips, they’re real, personalized strategies you can start applying immediately to unlock quick wins and build lasting momentum.

Want to see what’s possible with coaching?

. After joining vidIQ Coaching, they refined their content, followed their tailored plan, and watched their channel take off.

TL;DR: This Summer, You Grow or You Ghost

Here’s the latest features you get with the vidIQ Summer 2025 Drop:

 - Create high-impact, click-worthy thumbnails with AI and proven templates

 - Hook viewers and keep them watching with YouTube-optimized storytelling

 - Instantly spot top-performing Shorts and track breakout metrics

 - Discover overperforming videos across YouTube to inspire your next big hit

 - Find the best title and keywords to get your Shorts discovered

The Summer 2025 Drop is here: scroll-stopping science, smarter tools, and real coaching to help you grow on YouTube.

☀️ Welcome to the vidIQ Summer 2025 Drop!

n 2025, President Donald Trump declared April 2 as "Liberation Day,"

 unveiling sweeping tariffs that have since sent shockwaves through the global economy.

As YouTube creators, we often focus on algorithm changes, monetization policies, and content trends - but rarely do we consider how broader economic policies like tariffs might affect our livelihoods. 

While tariffs are often discussed in the context of manufacturing and international trade, their ripple effects extend far beyond traditional industries. YouTube creators, who operate at the intersection of digital content and physical goods, are now grappling with the unforeseen consequences of these policy shifts.

Before we can understand the impact on creators, let's clarify what a tariff actually is. Simply put, a tariff is a tax imposed on imported goods or services. 

When the United States places a tariff on products coming in from other countries, it effectively increases the cost of those items once they reach American shores. Tariffs have been used throughout history as tools for economic and political leverage, protecting domestic industries, raising revenue, and applying pressure in international negotiations.

President Trump's recent tariff announcements represent a continuation of his economic philosophy from his previous term, emphasizing what he describes as "America First" trade policies. These new tariffs target a wide range of products, many of which are directly relevant to the tools and equipment that YouTube creators rely on daily.

This is perhaps one of the most misunderstood aspects of tariff policy - and it's crucial for YouTube creators to understand. Despite common misconceptions, when the United States imposes tariffs on imported goods, the foreign government doesn't directly pay these taxes. Instead, the immediate cost falls on the American companies importing those products.

These businesses then face a choice: absorb the additional costs (reducing their profit margins) or pass them along to consumers through higher prices. In most cases, 

at least some portion of the tariff cost gets passed on to the end consumer

 - which includes YouTube creators purchasing equipment.

So, when asking "who pays the tariff?" the answer is complex but ultimately leads back to American businesses and consumers. This economic reality plays out in the creator economy just as it does elsewhere.

How are Tariffs Affecting the Creator Economy?

So far, we've theory crafted some ideas on how these policies could impact the lives of YouTube creators. In reality, tariffs are already influencing certain YouTube channels in the US. 

In the video above, Dan points to specific channels which are facing a direct effect of the tariff. Let's discuss the problems they might face as a result:

YouTube creators rely heavily on equipment like cameras, microphones, lighting, and editing software—many of which are imported.With the new tariffs, the prices of these essential tools have surged. For instance, tariffs on electronics from China have increased landscaping equipment costs from 

 making it significantly more expensive for creators to upgrade or replace their gear.

Many creators supplement their income by selling merchandise. However, the materials used—such as fabrics, inks, and packaging—are often imported. The increased tariffs have raised production costs, forcing creators to either absorb the expenses or pass them on to consumers, potentially reducing sales.

Content Creation in Niche Markets Suffers

Creators who focus on reviewing imported products, like toys, board games, or tech gadgets, face a unique dilemma. With tariffs making these products more expensive or harder to obtain, the content pipeline dries up. For example, board game reviewers are impacted by tariffs that have spiked 

 threatening the viability of their channels.

The 54 Best YouTube Niches, According to Viewers

Strategies for YouTube Creators in the Tariff Era

Despite these challenges, resourceful creators can adapt and even find opportunities in this changing landscape. Here are some practical strategies to consider:

Relying too heavily on any single income source - whether AdSense, sponsorships, or physical products - leaves creators vulnerable to tariff-related disruptions. Consider exploring:

Digital products (courses, templates, presets) which aren't subject to tariffs

Community-based revenue models like memberships

Licensing content to platforms and brands

Beyond AdSense: Using Brand Promotion as Your YouTube Monetization Strategy

With equipment costs rising, creators should:

Consider buying used equipment when appropriate

Explore rental options for gears used occasionally

Research domestic alternatives to imported equipment

Plan purchases well in advance to account for potential supply chain delays

Pool resources with other creators for expensive equipment

3. Lean Into the Creator Economy's Digital Nature

One advantage creators have is that our primary product, content, crosses borders digitally without being subject to tariffs. Emphasizing digital delivery over physical products can provide some insulation from tariff impacts.

For creators with merchandise lines, working with domestic manufacturers may become more cost competitive as tariffs increase the price of imported alternatives. This shift also creates content opportunities, as audiences often appreciate behind-the-scenes looks at local production.

Transparency about how economic conditions is affecting your creator business can strengthen audience relationships. Consider creating content that explains these challenges, perhaps even using your experience to help viewers understand broader economic concepts like tariffs.

Historically, internet-based businesses have operated somewhat independently from traditional economic policy levers. The digital economy grew in an environment of relatively free trade and minimal regulation. 

As the creator economy matures and becomes a more significant economic force (

now estimated at over $100 billion globally

), it increasingly faces the same regulatory and policy environments that traditional industries navigate.

So, let's be ready to navigate treacherous waters, and keep adapting to new changes. 

image representation of increasing tariffs

Do tariffs raise costs and shrink profits for YouTube creators in surprising ways? Find out the answer here!

How Do Tariffs Impact YouTube Creators?

On April 23, 2005, a simple video at the San Diego Zoo sparked the creation of what would become the world's largest video platform.

As YouTube celebrates its 20th anniversary, we reflect on how this revolutionary platform transformed 

Twenty years ago, YouTube co-founder Jawed Karim uploaded the platform's first video, "

." This 19-second clip, featuring Karim in front of elephants, now has over 355 million views. It was a modest beginning for a platform that quickly evolved from a niche video-sharing site into a global phenomenon.

Founded by Karim, Chad Hurley, and Steve Chen, YouTube officially launched on December 15, 2005.

By the end of its first year, YouTube was serving 2 million daily video views. Just 10 months later, Google acquired YouTube, setting the stage for its explosive growth. Today, the platform hosts over five billion videos, with 360 hours of content uploaded every minute.

Transforming Entertainment and Viewing Habits

At 20 years old, YouTube’s influence on entertainment is unparalleled. Viewing habits have evolved from computer-based browsing to mobile streaming and, more recently, 

 as smart TVs become ubiquitous. Surprisingly, more Americans now watch YouTube on TVs than on any other device.

As YouTube turns 20, its content offerings continue to expand:

: The platform’s fastest-growing format.

: With over one billion monthly viewers, YouTube has become a leading platform for podcast content.

: Real-time engagement through immersive live features.

: Home to over 300 videos in the "billion views club," including groundbreaking hits like 

From music to gaming, YouTube has redefined entire industries:

: Artists like Justin Bieber and Billie Eilish were discovered on YouTube, and the platform now rivals traditional music outlets.

: With live streams and gaming content drawing millions of viewers, YouTube Live reached a peak of 16 million concurrent viewers in October 2023.

: Children’s content creators, like Miss Rachel, have become household names for young families.

YouTube serves as a "superpower in our pocket," offering tutorials on virtually any subject. 

Ninety-five percent of Americans have used YouTube to learn something new

, and 94% of U.S. teachers incorporate the platform into their classrooms.

At its core, YouTube is about connection. From creators responding to comments to users discovering niche interests, the platform fosters meaningful engagement. Features like "hearting" comments and the "Sort by Oldest" option highlight its commitment to community, reminding us that every creator starts with a single upload.

As YouTube celebrates this milestone, it continues to fulfill its mission of giving everyone a voice and showing them the world. From a zoo video to a global empire, YouTube’s journey underscores the power of storytelling and the remarkable things that happen when people share their stories

YouTube turns 20: from a zoo video to a global platform reshaping entertainment, education, and connection worldwide.

YouTube Turns 20: From Zoo Video to Global Empire

Making the transition to a full-time YouTuber is a big step for many content creators. Like all big changes, it can bring excitement as well as significant challenges and uncertainties.

If you're considering going all in, here are essential tips for full-time YouTubers to help you navigate this journey successfully.

Understanding the Financial Aspects of a Full-time YouTuber

Financial planning is one of the most crucial tips for full-time YouTubers because it directly impacts your ability to sustain your lifestyle. It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of a viral video, but you need to plan for the future so you have the stability to keep making great content.

For instance, if you had a video that garnered tons of views and earned thousands of dollars, congratulations! But remember, this most likely won't be the norm because YouTube income is "consistently inconsistent.

Before making the leap, you should have a financial cushion. Aim to have at least three to six months of living expenses saved up. This includes rent, healthcare, taxes, and all other bills. The unpredictable nature of YouTube income means that what you earn one month might not be the same the next. Having savings allows you the freedom to take a mental health break or experiment with content without the pressure of immediate financial strain.

One of the most practical tips for full-time YouTubers is to create a separate account specifically for tax funds. YouTube does not withhold taxes from your payouts, so it’s best to set aside approximately 33% of your YouTube earnings for taxes. The IRS expects its cut, and it's better to be safe than sorry.

Remember, as a self-employed creator, you're responsible for all tax payments.

Depending on your content type, you might want to consider 

 (Limited Liability Company). While this might not be necessary for everyone, it can protect you from liability, especially if your content touches on controversial subjects or you engage with brands. It's a good safety measure to have, even if you’re starting small.

you lose benefits including healthcare when you quit your job

One of the often-overlooked tips for full-time YouTubers is planning for the loss of company-sponsored benefits when transitioning to full-time content creation. Accidents can happen, so it's essential to have healthcare coverage to avoid financial disasters.

Be sure to secure your own healthcare benefits as you become a full-time YouTuber. Start by researching healthcare options immediately to find one that provides adequate coverage within your price range. Along with that, you may want to consider getting disability insurance as well to protect your income.

Unlike a traditional job with a steady paycheck, YouTube income can be erratic. One month you might earn a lot, while the next you might not.

Being mentally prepared for this inconsistency can go a long way. For instance, you might put in the same amount of work but receive drastically different pay based on viewer engagement and ad revenue fluctuations. Going into your full-time YouTube career knowing this will make it that much easier to navigate.

Relying solely on ad revenue can be risky. Many full-time YouTubers diversify their income streams by exploring options like 

, merchandise, providing services, Patreon, or even Twitch streaming. This way, if one income source dips, others can help keep you afloat.

 sounds appealing, it also comes with responsibilities. For starters, you need to be very self-motivated and extremely disciplined.

To do this, you’re going to have to stay on top of everything that goes into running a successful channel, such as developing a production schedule, creating a content calendar, setting deadlines, and holding yourself accountable on all fronts. The freedom of being a full-time YouTuber can quickly turn into chaos without structure.

You can’t create a guide offering tips for full-time YouTubers without talking about the importance of long-term planning. Start by setting clear goals for your channel and outline how you intend to achieve them. This could include strategies for increasing viewership, engaging with your audience, or expanding your content range. Taking little steps now can lead to big strides down the road.

 can provide support and opportunities you might not find elsewhere. For instance, collaborating with other YouTubers can introduce you to new audiences and provide fresh content ideas. Along with that, working with other YouTubers can create a sense of community and offer emotional support from others who have taken the same journey as you. Start small to build your network. Try engaging with fellow YouTubers on social media or at events to build valuable relationships.

As a full-time YouTuber, your skills will need to evolve continuously. Consider investing in courses on video editing, SEO, marketing or any other area of expertise that can help you grow as a YouTuber. But remember, it’s not enough to just learn a new skill and move on. Be sure to stay updated on industry trends to give yourself an edge over the competition.

Converting YouTube success into a sustainable career requires more than just viral videos or subscriber counts. The journey demands financial preparation, business infrastructure, and a realistic understanding of creator economics

But here’s the biggest tip: The most successful full-time YouTubers don't rush the transition—they strategically time their leap to full-time when they've built both the audience and financial foundation to weather the inevitable ups and downs of creator life.

Looking for video inspiration? Then we've got you covered. 

Learn essential tips for transitioning to a full-time YouTuber, including financial planning, income diversification, and growth strategies.

Tips for Full-Time YouTubers: When to Take the Leap

If you've ever been five seconds into a video and got slapped with a loud ad about toothpaste, you’ve probably wondered: Is YouTube Premium worth it? Or better yet, 

 now, and what are you getting for that price?

 and some fresh updates rolled out in 2025, YouTube Premium is trying to be more than just "YouTube without ads." In this post, we’ll dig into what YouTube Premium is offering today, how it's evolving, and whether it deserves your monthly subscription.

No ads, original content, and videos that play in the background: For video fanatics, this is just a small taste of what 

 offers to subscribers. Formerly known as 

, this rebranded service combines a variety of features for the perfect YouTube binge.

Here’s a complete list of all the exciting Premium features:

Offline video viewing (download and watch later)

Offline music listening (download and listen later)

Background play (content plays outside app/when phone is closed)

These are great perks for viewers; however, creators will appreciate Premium for a different set of reasons. While the audience can expect fewer interruptions on the app, creators are getting what they’ve always wanted from the deal: more ways to increase their revenue on YouTube.

The service also lets creators get paid through your subscription, so you're still supporting the people you watch, even if you're skipping ads.

How Creators Earn More Money With YouTube Premium

And now for the big question: How does it all work? How are creators able to make more money on top of AdSense revenue with YouTube Premium?

In a nutshell, YouTube shares some of its Premium revenue with creators. Whatever the portion may be, the platform distributes this money to creators based on much 

So, for example, if one channel receives higher Watch Time than another, it gets a larger chunk of money. In the end, YouTube takes a 45% cut of a creator’s Premium earnings, just as it does for ad-generated revenue.

Discover how YouTube Premium generates revenue for creators through watch time metrics, revenue sharing, and new features that boost your channel.

Your In-Depth Guide to Building a Successful YouTube Channel

☀️ Welcome to the vidIQ Summer 2025 Drop!

How Do Tariffs Impact YouTube Creators?

YouTube Turns 20: From Zoo Video to Global Empire

Tips for Full-Time YouTubers: When to Take the Leap

YouTube Premium in 2025: How it Works

Break Your Upload Hesitation: Finding Video Inspiration

Beyond AdSense: Using Brand Promotion as Your YouTube Monetization Strategy

How to Test Videos with YouTube Groups

YouTube vs Twitch: The Best Choice in 2025

How to Optimize YouTube Shorts

Are AI Thumbnail Makers Destroying YouTube?

18 Powerful YouTube Shorts Hooks That Go Viral [2025 Guide]

How to Create Signature YouTube Gaming Content