How to Make a How-To Video

The exponential growth of social media, along with the rise of online courses and video marketing, has made how-to videos or tutorial videos an essential...

The exponential growth of social media, along with the rise of online courses and video marketing, has made how-to videos or tutorial videos an essential type of video content for both professional and DIY content creators. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned video maker, this article will provide you with a step-by-step guide to creating high-quality instructional videos for platforms like YouTube and Vimeo.

How to Create an Instructional Video Step by Step

1. Planning & Storyboarding: Before you start recording, it's crucial to plan your video content. Determine the topic, the know-how you want to share, and your target audience. Write a detailed video script outlining each step in your tutorial, and then convert this script into a storyboard. A storyboard will help you visualize the sequence of steps, transitions, and interactions in your video.
2. Recording: There are various methods to record video, depending on the type of tutorial you are making. If you are creating a screencast, use screen recording software. If your video requires physical demonstrations, use a high-quality camera or webcam.
3. Voice-Over: In many instructional videos, a voice-over is used to explain the steps. Ensure that your voice-over is clear and easy to understand. Use a good quality microphone for recording.
4. Editing: Use video editing software to put together your clips, add transitions, sound effects, background music, and subtitles. The editing phase is also when you can add interactive elements to keep the viewer's attention.
5. Post-Production: This step includes creating an enticing thumbnail, writing a detailed description, and adding relevant tags.
6. Publishing: Once you've created a great video, it's time to share it on your YouTube channel or any other video sharing platform. Remember to engage with your audience in the comments section and share your video on social media for wider reach.

How to Record Your Screen for a Lesson Video?

Screen recording or screencasting is a common method used in making lesson videos or software tutorials. On a Mac, QuickTime Player provides an easy way to record your screen in real-time. For Windows, PowerPoint offers a screen recording feature. Alternatively, professional video production often uses dedicated screen recording software such as Camtasia or OBS Studio.

Remember to clear your desktop of any unnecessary files or applications to keep the viewer’s attention on the content. Also, consider using a script or prompts to keep your explanations clear and concise.

How to Make a Tutorial Video on an iPhone?

To make a tutorial video on an iPhone, you can use the built-in screen recording feature. Go to Settings -> Control Centre -> Customize Controls, then tap the '+' icon next to Screen Recording. To start recording, swipe up from the bottom of the screen (or down from the top right corner on iPhone X or later), then tap the record button.

For editing, iMovie is a great free video editor for beginners. It provides a variety of templates, transitions, and sound effects. For a more professional video, consider using paid apps like LumaFusion.

How to Make a Teaching Video?

Teaching videos often combine screencasts with webcam footage. Start by writing a script for your lesson and creating a storyboard. Record your screen and your webcam footage separately, then use video editing software to combine them. You can also add interactive elements, such as quizzes or links to further resources, to enhance the learning experience.

How to Make a How-To Video on YouTube?

Creating a how-to video for YouTube follows the same steps as making any other instructional video. However, there are a few YouTube-specific considerations.

1. Intro & Outro: Start your video with a compelling intro to grab your viewer's attention, and end with an outro that includes a call-to-action, such as asking viewers to like, share, or subscribe to your channel.

1. SEO: Optimize your video title, description, and tags to help your video get discovered in YouTube search.
2. Thumbnail: A high-quality, visually appealing thumbnail can significantly increase your video's click-through rate.
3. Annotations & Cards: Use YouTube's annotation and card features to add interactive elements, such as links to your website or other videos.
4. Subtitles: Add subtitles to make your video accessible to a larger audience.
5. Engagement: Encourage viewer engagement by asking questions and responding to comments.

What are the Best Apps for Desktop to Make Instructional Videos?

Several video editing software can help you make high-quality instructional videos. Here are a few of the best:

1. Camtasia: A professional-grade video editor and screen recorder, ideal for making explainer videos and online courses.
2. Adobe Premiere Pro: A comprehensive video editing tool, often used in professional video production.
3. iMovie: A beginner-friendly video editor for Mac users, offering a variety of templates and transitions.
4. Filmora: A versatile video editor with a wide range of editing tools and effects, suitable for beginners and advanced users.
5. DaVinci Resolve: A powerful video editing software offering high-quality video effects, color correction, and audio post-production.

5 Best Chrome, Safari, and Firefox Extensions for Screen Recording

Screen recording extensions allow you to record your screen directly from your browser. Here are the top 5 extensions for Chrome, Safari, and Firefox:

Chrome:

1. Screencastify: Easy-to-use with an option to record with your webcam. Offers limited free usage.
2. Loom: Allows real-time recording and quick sharing options. Free for basic use.
3. Nimbus Screenshot & Screen Video Recorder: Offers a variety of recording and annotation options.
4. Awesome Screenshot & Screen Recorder: Allows you to capture, annotate, and share screenshots and screen recordings.
5. Screen Recorder: A simple and free extension for quick screen recordings.

Safari:

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, Safari does not support extensions for screen recording. Mac users can use the built-in QuickTime Player for screen recording or use professional video editing software mentioned earlier.

Firefox:

1. Loom for Firefox: Similar to its Chrome counterpart, it offers real-time recording and quick sharing options.
2. Nimbus Screen Capture: Offers a variety of recording and annotation options.
3. Firefox Screenshots: A built-in tool for capturing screenshots, but does not offer video recording.
4. Awesome Screenshot Plus: Allows you to capture, annotate, and share screenshots and screen recordings.
5. Screencast-O-Matic: An easy-to-use extension that allows you to record, edit, and share videos.

Speechify AI Video. The best way to make a how-to video.

Speechify AI Video is an AI online video editor that runs in your browser. Easily upload your video, edit, and download. No need to download apps onto your desktop. Needless to say, you can use this on your Mac, iPhone, Android, or PC. It is device agnostic.

With over 200 voices, languages and accents, you can find the perfect voice in various languages.

Note: Always remember to check the pricing and privacy policies of these tools before using them, especially if you're recording sensitive information.

Creating your own how-to video might seem like a daunting task, but with this step-by-step guide and the right tools, you can produce high-quality, engaging, and informative instructional videos. Whether you're making a simple screencast or a comprehensive online course, the key is to keep your content clear, concise, and focused on providing value to your viewers. Happy video creation!