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Making a video

Scripting your video

Although a video is often less formal than a written text, the language still needs to be appropriate for the purpose of the task.

To do this, you should develop a script.

It’s important to write for and speak to your audience. Think about what the audience already knows and how much they need to know. You should then carefully draft and re-draft the script.

Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

 


Structuring your script

The structure of your script needs to be clear and logical. Set out the key points in order. Think how you will transition between these points.

Structural elements include:

  • introduction - provides a background and focus
  • body - takes the audience through the key points step-by-step
  • conclusion - reinforces key points and ends with a strong concluding statement
  • signposting or connective language - links sections and ideas by creating a flow

Place these signposting phrases in order from first to last:


Storyboarding

Creating storyboards (sometimes called concept boards or concept plans) will help you to plan your video. In preproduction, the storyboard will tell you what footage you need.  In post-production (or editing), it is an essential tool for drafting how the video will fit together.

Check out the resources below for more information on creating a storyboard:

Below is a template you can use to storyboard your video:


Practice makes perfect!

You should always rehearse your video before you start recording. Practice by moving through these steps:

  1. Read your full script out loud
  2. Practice keeping to your set time limit
  3. Rehearse in front of others and get constructive feedback
  4. Make changes to content, language, order and flow if need be
  5. Practice again!

Keep in mind all of this planning and practice saves recording and editing time by keeping you concise and on track.