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:
This interactive image hotspot provides key tips for writing your script. Each hotspot explores a useful tip for writing your script. Hotspots are displayed as plus (+) icons that can be clicked, to present the information.
Try not to cram too much into your presentation. When editing, ask yourself "Does it add to my presentation or distract?"
Try not to use too many definitions, abbreviations, technical terminology or jargon. Will the audience be familiar with your discipline vocabulary?
Write it the way you would say it.
Think about words that might be difficult for you to pronounce. Replace them with words you find easier to say.
Use inclusive language such as “you”, “us”, “we”. Speak to your audience rather than at them.
Use connective language that links one idea to the next. This helps lead the audience through the presentation.
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:
Place these signposting phrases in order from first to last:
Two rows are displayed. The first row is a chronological sequence of numbers from 1 to 5. The second row are 5 text boxes describing signposting phrases. These can be dragged and dropped the 5 text boxes into the row above. The task is to place the text boxes with signposting phrases in order from first to last.
The moveable text box content is as follows:
How would you put these signposting phrases in order from first to last?
The correct solution to this activity is as follows:
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:
You should always rehearse your video before you start recording. Practice by moving through these steps:
Keep in mind all of this planning and practice saves recording and editing time by keeping you concise and on track.