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University Libraries Learning YouTube: Length of Video

Length of Video

Instructional content should be kept brief, with each video addressing a single clearly defined concept. If your lesson is more complex than this allows, please consider making a series of videos to address each instructional concept individually. 

Research from MIT shows that the ideal length for instructional videos is 3-6 minutes. After the 6 minute mark, engagement starts to decline. Therefore, we should aim to keep instructional video length within this 3-6 minute window. 

Some instructional videos may require more time, like database demonstrations or pre-recorded course lectures. Please note that the 3-6 minute range is recommended, but not required for any videos you may create.