You don’t need to spend your budget on expensive services, or invest in specialist equipment to make instructional ‘how-to’ videos. With a smartphone and something worth teaching, you’ve already got everything you need.
A study published in the scholarly journal, Computers in Human Behavior analysed what works and what doesn’t, when it comes to instructional video. Their findings offer powerful insights for anyone looking to create great video that connects with viewers and leaves a lasting impact.
Anyone can create video that helps people learn just by following some basic techniques and a few research-backed strategies. Here’s three techniques you can start using in your next video:
1. Keep it short and snappy
People learn better when information is broken into small, meaningful parts. Short sections and giving your audience control over the pace of your video can help them absorb the information and reduces cognitive overload.
🎬 Top Tip: Instead of filming one long take, record short clips for each step or concept. Add transitions or title cards between sections so your audience can pause, rewind if they need to and continue when they’re ready.
2. Use multiple camera angles
Using both first-person (“what I see”) and third-person (“watch me do it”) angles taps into our natural way of learning by doing and watching. This makes it easier for your audience to follow the process and take action.
🎬 Top Tip: Place your camera or smartphone on a tripod or prop it on a shelf to film you from above or behind. Then record a quick “from your eyes” view holding the phone in front of you. Edit the two together and cut between them.
3. Give feedback
Giving timely and relevant feedback, whether it’s encouragement or helpful pointers, keeps your viewer on track and helps them correct mistakes. It also supports motivation, builds confidence, and improves performance.
🎬 Top Tip: A quick “here’s what to check” or “watch out for this common mistake” can make a big difference. Add these as short captions or voiceovers to guide your viewer in the moment without interrupting the flow.
Great ‘how-to’ videos, made simple
With the right techniques and the device already in your pocket, you can create great video with your smartphone that makes learning easy.
Remember:
- Keep your videos short and focused
- Let viewers control when they move to the next part
- Use both first-person and third-person views
- Show what matters, your hands, the process, not just your face
- Offer feedback if you ask viewers to try something
When you use these top tips, your videos will look better and they’ll help people learn.
Ready to jump into your next video? You’ve totally got this! If you’re feeling a bit stuck, no worries, my smartphone video training can help you get started.
Information sourced from What works and doesn’t work with instructional video.
Focus 'n Develop 