How to Create YouTube Shorts: Long Shorts vs. Short Shorts

Recently, YouTube announced a change to its short-form videos: they can now be up to three minutes long. Launched to compete with platforms like TikTok, these concise videos can be a fantastic way to capture attention and drive engagement. Knowing how to create YouTube Shorts that are three minutes long is a great way to drive more viewers and retain loyal subscribers. Let’s talk about that!

In this article we will tackle the following:

Why Create YouTube Shorts

Creating YouTube Shorts offers numerous advantages. First and foremost, they cater to the growing demand for bite-sized content. As viewers tend to have shorter attention spans, delivering messages quickly and effectively can keep them engaged. These quick bursts of creativity can help creators showcase their personality and content style without the need for elaborate setups or lengthy editing processes. Furthermore, since YouTube prioritizes Shorts in their search algorithms, this format can increase the visibility of your content, potentially drawing in a broader audience.

As we discuss the differences between longer shorts and shorter shorts, we will also discuss best practices to work around these nuances.

What Are the Benefits of Creating Three-Minute YouTube Shorts

Three-minute shorts have become increasingly popular in the world of storytelling. They offer a unique format that allows for more than just quick entertainment. The following are the benefits of creating content in this format.

More time for in-depth storytelling and character development: In a short span, creators can delve into the lives of their characters, giving the audience a deeper understanding of their motivations, backgrounds, and emotions. For example, instead of a fleeting introduction to a character, a three-minute short can explore their daily struggles, aspirations, and relationships. This creates a connection with the audience that a one-minute clip may not achieve. A well-crafted short can showcase a character’s journey, illustrating their growth and challenges in a way that resonates emotionally. This deeper connection encourages viewers to invest in the story and, ultimately, the journey of the characters involved.
Ability to incorporate multiple segments or themes: In addition to character development, three-minute shorts allow creators to incorporate multiple segments or themes within the same piece. This flexibility can lead to a more dynamic storytelling experience. A creator can choose to focus on various aspects of a theme, such as love, friendship, or conflict, and show how these themes play out in different situations.
Greater opportunity to engage and retain audience interest: The potential for greater engagement also comes from the ability to share three-minute shorts easily. With platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, creators can maximize their visibility and reach by producing content that is quick to watch yet rich in storytelling. These platforms facilitate sharing, encouraging viewers to spread the word about content they enjoy. When a three-minute short resonates with an audience, they are more likely to share it with friends, further amplifying its reach.

What Are the Disadvantages of Three-Minute YouTube Shorts

Creating three-minute YouTube shorts can come with several drawbacks that content creators should carefully consider. These are some of the disadvantages of creating longer shorts.

Risk of losing viewer attention if content drags on: In a world where attention spans are short, even a brief three-minute video can feel too long if the content does not engage the audience from the very beginning. For example, if the initial seconds do not capture the viewer’s interest, they may quickly click away, resulting in a lost opportunity to connect with them. To mitigate this problem, creators need to focus on crafting strong openings that hook viewers instantly, ensuring that every second of the video contributes to maintaining engagement.
Potential higher production costs and time requirements: Another drawback lies in the potential higher production costs and time requirements associated with producing three-minute YouTube shorts. While shorter videos can sometimes be produced more quickly, the need for more elaborate storytelling or higher production values in a longer format can lead to increased costs. For instance, adding animations, quality graphics, or well-planned shots could elevate the expense and time commitment needed to create a polished final product. Content creators must weigh the benefits of producing longer shorts against the investment in both money and time. This might involve budgeting carefully or planning out production schedules to avoid delays that can arise from complex video projects.

Production cost

Less chance of going viral compared to quick, snappy content: Longer YouTube shorts have less chance of going viral compared to quicker, snappier content. Shorter videos that are fast-paced and to the point often have a better chance of being shared widely, as they can easily fit into people’s busy lives. A quick, funny clip or an unexpected twist tends to attract more shares and interaction, especially on social media platforms. For example, videos that last for a few seconds or a minute can often be replayed multiple times, encouraging viewers to share them with friends. To increase virality, creators should consider focusing on punchy, entertaining content that can grab attention immediately rather than stretching ideas into longer formats that may dilute the original impact.

What Are the Benefits of Shorter YouTube Shorts (30-60 Seconds)

There are several benefits to creating shorter shorts; the points below highlight three of them:

Easier for viewers to consume quickly, increasing shareability: People often have limited attention spans, and shorter content caters to this trend. When a video is brief, it allows viewers to engage with it without a significant time commitment. This can increase the likelihood of sharing because people are more inclined to share something that takes only a brief moment to watch. For example, if someone comes across a funny 30-second skit that makes them laugh, they are more likely to send it to friends, post it on social media, or recommend it to others. This increased shareability can lead to a larger audience reach and greater engagement.
Ideal for punchy, attention-grabbing content like jokes, skits, or quick tips: They are perfect for delivering quick jokes, amusing skits, or useful tips in a condensed format. For example, a creator might choose to present one quick life hack or a single joke in a 30-second clip. This format allows the creator to focus on the punchline or the essential message without unnecessary fluff. It’s about getting straight to the point. In a world saturated with information and entertainment, quick and engaging content makes a lasting impact and keeps the audience entertained. Many viewers appreciate content that respects their time, making shorter formats appealing.
Lower production time and cost, allowing for more frequent uploads: Creating content can often be a resource-intensive process, requiring significant time, effort, and financial investment. However, shorter videos can be produced more quickly. This gives creators the ability to generate more frequent uploads. For instance, instead of spending weeks or even days planning and shooting a longer video, a creator can brainstorm quick ideas, shoot them in a short session, and edit them efficiently. This leads to a more consistent content release schedule, which is particularly important in keeping an audience engaged. Consistency can significantly impact audience retention, as followers are more likely to stick around if they know to expect new content regularly.

What Are the Disadvantages of Shorter YouTube Shorts (30-60 Seconds)

Limited time to convey complex ideas or stories: When creators have only a few seconds to convey their ideas, they must simplify their thoughts without losing the essence of the story. This means that every word counts. For example, rather than explaining a character’s entire backstory, a creator might choose a key detail that hints at their personality or motivations. This can be done through a powerful single line or a striking visual. The goal is to engage the audience quickly, capturing their attention instantly in a way that makes them want to know more.
Competitive pool where creators must stand out in a matter of seconds: Creators are vying for attention in a crowded space where millions of stories compete for the same viewer’s eyes. With so many options available, it is essential for creators to find unique ways to stand out. One method could be to develop a distinct style or voice that is recognizable. For instance, a creator might use a specific color palette, a unique narrative structure, or a particular theme that sets them apart from others. By doing this, they can create a brand that becomes familiar to their audience. Additionally, using engaging visuals or catchy music can make a story more memorable, giving it an edge over the countless others that viewers encounter.
More challenging to build a loyal audience with such brief interactions: Since creators often have limited time to connect with their audience, they need to find ways to build relationships quickly. One effective way to do this is through engagement. For instance, responding to comments or encouraging audience participation via polls or questions can foster a sense of community. Creators can use their platforms to ask their audience about their preferences or opinions, making them feel valued and heard.

What Content Should I Create

Opting for longer shorts or shorter shorts will largely depend on the type of content you wish to deliver. The following are some types of content you can produce based on these two formats.

What content should you create

Three-Minute YouTube Shorts

Three-minute shorts might appeal to those focused on storytelling, tutorials, or commentary.

Storytelling

Many people who enjoy storytelling find these short videos appealing. They offer just enough time to craft a brief narrative that can engage viewers without requiring a big-time investment. For example, a storyteller can present a micro-story that captures a moment or an emotion vividly. They can use the three minutes to create a character, set up a conflict, and deliver a resolution, leaving the audience satisfied yet wanting more. This format allows creators to experiment with plots, themes, and character arcs, making storytelling dynamic and varied.

Tutorials

Additionally, three-minute YouTube shorts can serve as effective tutorials. In today’s fast-paced world, many prefer quick, efficient ways to learn new skills. A cooking tutorial that shows how to make a simple dish in three minutes can be very attractive. Viewers appreciate being able to see the steps without dedicating a lot of their time. Instructional videos covering a variety of topics, such as crafts, technology, or fitness, can fit neatly into this three-minute frame, making learning accessible and enjoyable. For instance, a three-minute video demonstrating a quick workout routine can inspire viewers to stay active even with their busy schedules.

Commentary

Commentary is another area where three-minute YouTube shorts thrive. Creators can share their insights on current events, pop culture, or personal experiences in a concise manner. This format allows for quick takes on trending topics, which resonate well with audiences seeking instant information and opinions. A creator might discuss a recent movie or social news, providing their viewpoint in an engaging and digestible way. This type of content capitalizes on the fact that viewers often prefer snippets of information they can easily consume and relate to.

Shorter YouTube Shorts

Shorter shorts may attract creators in comedy, trends, and quick DIY tips.

Comedy

In just a few seconds, a joke or a funny situation can be set up and delivered. The punchline needs to be immediate and impactful. For example, a creator can film a hilarious skit involving a misunderstanding or an exaggerated reaction that delivers laughs quickly without needing extensive backstory. This format allows humor to be snappy and to the point, making it highly shareable on social media.

Trends

Trends are also embraced by shorter YouTube shorts. Many creators jump into trending challenges or dances that are designed to go viral. These videos often rely on catchy music and visual elements rather than lengthy explanations. For instance, a creator might participate in a popular dance trend, adding their unique twist that showcases their personality while still appealing to the trend’s audience. The addictive nature of these challenges encourages viewers to engage and even join in, creating a community atmosphere around shared experiences.

Quick DIY Tips

Quick DIY tips are another area where shorter YouTube shorts shine. People are always looking for innovative ideas to make life easier, and these brief videos can provide fast, actionable suggestions. A one-minute video can show viewers how to organize their workspace or create a fun home decor project. By using simple materials and clear steps, creators can share effective tips without overwhelming their audience. For example, a short video showing how to make a flower vase from a recycled bottle can attract viewers who appreciate creative solutions to everyday problems.

How Much Will I Earn from Longer Shorts

When thinking about the earnings potential of creating video content, it’s important to consider the length of the videos you produce. Video length can have a significant impact on how much money you can make through advertising. Estimates indicate that creators typically earn between $0.01 and $0.03 per view for longer videos with established monetization strategies. In contrast, the monetization framework for YouTube Shorts is still being refined, which may result in lower initial earnings. Some creators have reported monthly income ranging from a few dollars to several hundred, largely influenced by their audience size and the number of views their Shorts receive. Nonetheless, these earnings can differ significantly across various channels and content categories.

Three-minute shorts are one option creators have when making videos. Although they are relatively short, the length allows for a more in-depth exploration of a topic or story. Longer videos can keep the viewer’s attention because they have enough time to develop an idea. When viewers are engaged and watch the entirety of a three-minute short, it can lead to higher advertising revenue. The reasoning behind this is that advertisers are often more interested in placing their ads on videos that keep viewers watching for longer periods. The more engaged viewers are, the more likely they are to remember the ads and take action afterward.

To maximize the earnings potential of three-minute shorts, consider the content you want to present. Focus on creating engaging hooks at the beginning to draw viewers in. For example, if your video is about cooking, start with a visually appealing clip of the finished dish to grab attention. Then, you can delve into the step-by-step cooking process. This method not only showcases your skills but also ensures viewers stay for the entire video, resulting in more ad impressions.

How Much Will I Earn from Shorter Shorts

On the other hand, shorter shorts, which might be around one minute or less, can generate quick views. These types of videos are often designed for fast consumption and can be easily shared across social media platforms. People often gravitate toward bite-sized content, especially when browsing their feeds. The potential for virality with shorter shorts is higher, as viewers can quickly watch and share with friends. However, this rapid viewing model may yield lower ad earnings per view compared to longer formats.

YouTube monetization

While shorter shorts may not retain viewers for longer periods, they still provide an opportunity to drive traffic and potentially convert viewers into followers or customers. The quick format lets you create teaser content, which can lead viewers to longer videos or additional content on your channel or platform. For instance, an entertaining one-minute clip about a funny pet could attract lots of views quickly. While the ad revenue per view might be less, the increased traffic could lead to more subscribers or followers engaging with your content in the future.

Better still, you can find out more detailed information about monetizing short videos in YouTube Shorts monetization policies.

Which Format Should I Choose

Ultimately, the choice between three-minute and shorter shorts depends on your content strategy and target audience. If your audience prefers more detailed storytelling, investing in three-minute shorts may be the way to go. Conversely, if they enjoy fast-paced, punchy content, exploring shorter shorts can be more effective. Remember that the main purpose of creating short videos is not to monetize, although you certainly can do that based on what we just discussed, but to drive more views and convert them to subscribers over time.

Why YouTube Increased the Duration to Three Minutes

So, you might be wondering why they increased the limit up to three minutes. Below are the reasons behind the update:

To enhance user engagement and retention with more substantial content. Today, creating engaging content is crucial for keeping users interested over time. Substantial content is a key element in this process. It refers to providing information that is not only interesting but also valuable to the audience. YouTube believes that this can be achieved by presenting in-depth knowledge and ensuring that users find what they are looking for.
To compete with other platforms offering similar or longer formats.

Competitors	Daily Views	Duration of Short Videos
TikTok	1.5 billion	Initially popular for 15-second videos, TikTok now allows videos up to 10 minutes long, offering flexibility for more extended content.
Instagram Reels	200 billion	Reels can be up to 90 seconds long, providing users with a platform for creative, short-form content.
Facebook Stories	500 million	Stories on Facebook can be up to 20 seconds long, but you can post multiple stories in a row, effectively extending the content length.

(Daily views data are courtesy of demandsage and yaguara.co)

Allow creators to dive deeper into topics or stories, thus enriching the viewing experience. When creators are given the freedom to dive deeper into topics or stories, they can significantly enrich the viewing experience for their audience. This depth allows viewers to engage with the content on multiple levels. Instead of merely skimming through surface details, audiences can explore the intricacies and nuances that make a story compelling.

Best Tips to Create YouTube Shorts

Now, let’s explore the step-by-step process for creating an engaging three-minute YouTube Short to maximize your chances of success.

1. Defining Your Purpose and Target Audience

The first step is to define your purpose and target audience. Identify what message you want to convey and who you want to reach; this will guide your content creation and ensure it resonates with viewers.

Who is your audience

2. Brainstorming Content Ideas

Next, brainstorm content ideas that fit within the three-minute timeframe. Consider what information you can provide or what entertaining snippets you can share. Whether it’s a quick tutorial, a story, or a comedic skit, clarity in your concept is crucial. Once you have a few ideas, narrow it down to one that you feel passionate about, as enthusiasm will translate into your performance.

3. Scripting and Crafting a Storyline

The third step involves scripting and storyboarding your Short. While a three-minute video may seem brief, creating a loose script can help keep you on track. Outline the key points you want to cover and the flow of your video. This doesn’t mean you should stick rigidly to your script, but having a roadmap can ensure you cover all essential aspects without going off-topic.

4. Creating Your Video Content

Once you’re ready, it’s time to film or create your Short. Decide whether you will be filming from your camera, or you will be designing it from your laptop like what we did with our short videos (faceless vlogging).

Filming

Following that, gather any resources you may need—this can include props, costumes, or a suitable location. When planning your shoot, remember that lighting and sound quality greatly affect the professional look of your video. Natural light works well, but if you’re shooting indoors, soft, diffused lighting can help to create a flattering appearance. Good audio is equally essential, so consider using an external microphone if possible.

Did you know that you can directly record using your phone camera via the YouTube app? If you haven’t done it before, it’s really fun to try it via the YouTube Studio mobile app. Set up your camera or smartphone on a tripod for stability, and make sure to position it at eye level for the most flattering angle. As you record, focus on your energy and delivery; engaging videos often come from genuine emotion and enthusiasm. Take multiple takes if needed, allowing room for flexibility in post-production.

Editing Your Video

After filming, you’ll move onto editing. Use user-friendly video editing software to trim unnecessary footage and ensure your video flows seamlessly. Again, you can also edit the video directly via the YouTube app. We use Canva and Speechify Studio to create stunning visuals and incorporate voiceovers into our short videos. Use engaging transitions, on-screen text, and background music to enhance the viewer’s experience. Keep in mind that pacing is critical in a three-minute video. Quick cuts can help maintain energy, but make sure to leave time for significant moments to resonate with your audience.

5. Uploading Shorts to YouTube

When your video is completed and polished, it’s time to upload it to YouTube. Here are some tips you can follow when uploading.

Title your Short with an attention-grabbing and descriptive headline: This is often the first impression viewers will have of your content.
Use relevant keywords: In the description, use relevant keywords to increase the visibility of your video in searches. Unlike long-form videos where you place hashtags in the description box, hashtags seem to work better when included in the title.
Choose catchy thumbnails: You can choose a portion of the video as the thumbnail. Please note that this option is only available on the mobile app. Pick the most engaging picture, as this can significantly impact click-through rates. Unfortunately, the option to upload a custom thumbnail is yet to become available. So, keep in mind to reserve one scene of the video as the thumbnail when filming or editing your video.

For more comprehensive steps and tips on how to properly upload videos via YouTube Studio, check out our tutorial video below.

Quick Tips in Promoting Your Content on Social Media

Finally, after your Short is live, promote it across your social media channels to reach a broader audience. Engaging with viewers through comments, responding to feedback, and soliciting suggestions for future videos can further build your community. Remember that consistency is vital. Regularly posting Shorts can help you refine your skills and grow your subscriber base over time. Get more tips for promoting your content on social media.

Our Final Thoughts on Creating YouTube Shorts

Creating a YouTube Short presents a unique opportunity for content creators to engage audiences nowadays. Understanding the pros and cons, formulating a clear strategy, and executing each step thoughtfully can help you produce compelling short videos. Embrace this dynamic format, experiment with your creativity, and watch your channel grow!

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