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University Libraries Learning YouTube: Scripts and Storyboards

Scripts and Storyboards

It's important to plan out your videos before you record them. Your videos should have a clear beginning, middle, and end. You can map out your video content before you record by using storyboards and scripts.

Scripts

As you prepare your script, keep these tips in mind:

  • Plan out your content: While it may be tempting to record on the fly, planning out your content will result in a better organized, more understandable video. 
  • Keep it simple: Stick to the essential topics you want to cover and avoid unrelated tangents. 
  • Set up structure:  Make sure that your script has a clear beginning (what the lesson will cover), middle (covering the lesson content), and end (reiterating what the learner should know).This will give your video structure and keep you on topic.

Planning out a script for your instruction videos before beginning the recording can also include identifying example searches for demonstrations of databases, and exploring your search results before you start recording your screen. 

Storyboards

Planning out your instructional video using a storyboard is one of the best ways to keep your video focused. Storyboards are visual planning documents which help you imagine each scene of your video. A common way to prepare a storyboard is by preparing a PowerPoint presentation for the content of your instructional video, but you can also use a number of widely available templates for Microsoft Word or Google Docs. You can also download a printable 6 slide storyboard template. Whichever method you choose, your storyboard will help you organize and envision the video you want to record.

If you choose to use a PowerPoint presentation for your storyboard, it can have the additional benefit of serving as an instructional tool when recording your video. You can capture your screen while sharing slides to clearly communicate the content and structure of your video content. 

PowerPoint templates prepared specifically for the University Libraries are available in the Logos and PowerPoints section.