How to Make an Explainer Video: A Complete Guide

<p>Let's talk about something that's changing the game in <strong>video marketing</strong>—<strong>explainer videos</strong>. Imagine this: you've got a product or service that could make a real difference, but how do you get people to understand its value instantly? That’s where <strong>explainer videos</strong> come in, acting as your most <strong>engaging, persuasive sales tool</strong>, all in <strong>video form</strong>.</p><p>Think about walking into a room where 82 out of 100 people are saying, <strong>“I’m sold!”</strong>—that’s exactly what explainer videos do online. In fact, <strong>72% of businesses</strong> using them have seen <strong>higher sales and improved conversion rates</strong>. And it’s not just about selling—people crave engaging, easy-to-digest content. Every week, more than <strong>half of global internet users</strong> watch <strong>educational videos and tutorials</strong>, proving the demand for well-crafted, informative content.</p><p>In this guide, we’ll break down the <strong>step-by-step process</strong> of creating an explainer video that <strong>doesn’t just inform, but captivates and converts</strong>. From <strong>understanding your audience</strong> to <strong>scriptwriting, editing, and promotion</strong>, we’ll cover everything you need to <strong>create explainer videos</strong>.</p><p>Ready to leverage the power of <strong>video marketing</strong> and create an <strong>explainer video</strong> that truly stands out? Let’s first understand...</p><h2 id="why-use-explainer-videos">Why Use Explainer Videos?</h2><h3 id="1-enhancing-marketing-effectiveness">1. <strong>Enhancing Marketing Effectiveness</strong></h3><p>Explainer videos have become a staple in digital marketing strategies due to their ability to <strong>simplify complex messages</strong> and make them more accessible to a broad audience. Studies show that viewers retain <strong>95% of a message</strong> when conveyed through video compared to only <strong>10% through text</strong>. This makes explainer videos a <strong>highly effective medium</strong> for businesses and educators looking to improve engagement and recall.</p><h3 id="2-boosting-conversion-rates">2. <strong>Boosting Conversion Rates</strong></h3><p>According to research, adding an explainer video to a landing page can increase <strong>conversion rates by up to 80%</strong>. By visually demonstrating the benefits of a product or service, businesses can help potential customers <strong>better understand the value proposition</strong>, ultimately leading to more sign-ups, purchases, or inquiries.</p><h3 id="3-strengthening-brand-awareness">3. <strong>Strengthening Brand Awareness</strong></h3><p>An engaging explainer video <strong>creates a memorable experience</strong> for viewers, helping brands establish a stronger connection with their audience. A well-crafted video with a unique style and <strong>consistent brand messaging</strong> can make a lasting impression, increasing brand recognition and customer trust.</p><h3 id="4-improving-seo-and-online-visibility">4. <strong>Improving SEO and Online Visibility</strong></h3><p>Google favors websites with <strong>video content</strong>, as it keeps visitors on the page longer, reducing bounce rates and improving search rankings. Businesses and educational creators that incorporate explainer videos into their websites or blog posts can enjoy <strong>higher organic traffic and better engagement metrics</strong>.</p><h3 id="5-facilitating-social-media-engagement">5. <strong>Facilitating Social Media Engagement</strong></h3><p>With the dominance of platforms like <strong>Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube</strong>, video content is more likely to be <strong>shared, liked, and commented on</strong> than static text or images. Explainer videos encourage interaction, allowing businesses and educators to <strong>expand their reach</strong> and increase audience engagement through social media.</p><h3 id="6-cost-effective-marketing-and-educational-tool">6. <strong>Cost-Effective Marketing and Educational Tool</strong></h3><p>Compared to traditional marketing strategies, explainer videos offer a <strong>cost-effective way to reach a large audience</strong>. A single high-quality video can be repurposed across multiple platforms, from websites and emails to ads and social media, maximizing its impact without incurring additional production costs. Similarly, educators use explainer videos to break down complex subjects into easy-to-understand formats for students.</p><h2 id="types-of-explainer-videos">Types of Explainer Videos</h2><p>Choosing the right type of explainer video depends on the <strong>business objectives, educational goals, target audience, and budget</strong>. Below are three main types:</p><h3 id="1-animated-explainer-videos">1. <strong>Animated Explainer Videos</strong></h3><h4 id="%F0%9F%93%8C-what-it-is">📌 What It Is:</h4><p>Animated explainer videos use <strong>graphics, motion design, and visual effects</strong> to tell a story. They are widely used because they allow businesses and educators to create visually engaging content without the need for physical production.</p><h4 id="%F0%9F%8E%AF-best-for">🎯 Best For:</h4><ul><li><strong>Tech companies</strong> explaining software products</li><li><strong>Startups</strong> introducing new concepts</li><li><strong>Healthcare and education sectors</strong> simplifying complex information</li><li><strong>E-commerce brands</strong> showcasing product features</li><li><strong>Educational content creators</strong> explaining difficult concepts to students</li></ul><h4 id="%E2%9C%85-pros">✅ Pros:</h4><ul><li>Highly engaging and visually appealing</li><li>Easy to update and modify</li><li>Ideal for simplifying abstract concepts</li></ul><h4 id="%E2%9D%8C-cons">❌ Cons:</h4><ul><li>Can be expensive depending on the animation style</li><li>Lacks the human touch of live-action videos</li></ul><h4 id="%E2%AD%90-example-use-case">⭐ Example Use Case:</h4><p>A <strong>fintech startup</strong> launches an animated explainer video demonstrating how their new budgeting app helps users <strong>track expenses and save money efficiently</strong>. Similarly, an educational YouTuber creates an animated explainer video to teach <strong>basic physics principles</strong> in an engaging way.</p><h3 id="2-live-action-explainer-videos">2. <strong>Live-Action Explainer Videos</strong></h3><h4 id="%F0%9F%93%8C-what-it-is-1">📌 What It Is:</h4><p>Live-action explainer videos feature <strong>real people, real settings, and real products</strong>, making them ideal for building <strong>trust and authenticity</strong> with the audience.</p><h4 id="%F0%9F%8E%AF-best-for-1">🎯 Best For:</h4><ul><li><strong>Brands that rely on personal connections</strong>, such as coaching services</li><li><strong>Businesses selling physical products</strong> that need demonstrations</li><li><strong>Corporate training and HR onboarding videos</strong></li><li><strong>Educational content that requires face-to-face explanation</strong></li></ul><h4 id="%E2%9C%85-pros-1">✅ Pros:</h4><ul><li>Builds trust and human connection</li><li>More relatable and authentic</li><li>Ideal for showing real-world applications of a product or concept</li></ul><h4 id="%E2%9D%8C-cons-1">❌ Cons:</h4><ul><li>Can be expensive to produce</li><li>Difficult to update or modify after production</li></ul><h4 id="%E2%AD%90-example-use-case-1">⭐ Example Use Case:</h4><p>A <strong>fitness brand</strong> creates a live-action explainer video showcasing how their new <strong>home workout equipment</strong> is used, featuring real people demonstrating exercises. Similarly, an <strong>online educator</strong> films a live-action tutorial on <strong>public speaking skills</strong>, providing real-life demonstrations.</p><h3 id="3-screencast-explainer-videos">3. <strong>Screencast Explainer Videos</strong></h3><h4 id="%F0%9F%93%8C-what-it-is-2">📌 What It Is:</h4><p>Screencast videos involve <strong>recording a computer screen</strong>, often with voiceover narration, to guide viewers through software or digital tools.</p><h4 id="%F0%9F%8E%AF-best-for-2">🎯 Best For:</h4><ul><li><strong>Tech companies</strong> demonstrating software features</li><li><strong>Customer support teams</strong> providing troubleshooting guides</li><li><strong>Online educators</strong> teaching software-based courses</li></ul><h4 id="%E2%9C%85-pros-2">✅ Pros:</h4><ul><li>Simple and cost-effective to produce</li><li>Great for <strong>step-by-step tutorials</strong></li><li>Effective for technical audiences</li></ul><h4 id="%E2%9D%8C-cons-2">❌ Cons:</h4><ul><li>Limited visual appeal compared to animation or live-action</li><li>Requires clear and engaging narration to maintain interest</li></ul><h4 id="%E2%AD%90-example-use-case-2">⭐ Example Use Case:</h4><p>A <strong>SaaS company</strong> creates a screencast explainer video walking users through their <strong>CRM software dashboard</strong>, highlighting key features and navigation tips. Similarly, an <strong>educator</strong> records a screencast video tutorial on <strong>how to use Microsoft Excel for data analysis</strong>.</p><h2 id="steps-to-create-an-explainer-video">Steps to Create an Explainer Video</h2><h3 id="1-research-and-understanding-the-audience"><strong>1. Research and Understanding the Audience</strong></h3><p>Before jumping into production, you need to <strong>identify your target audience</strong> and understand their needs, pain points, and preferences.</p><h4 id="key-questions-to-ask"><strong>Key Questions to Ask:</strong></h4><ul><li>Who is your target audience (e.g., customers, students, businesses)?</li><li>What problem does your product/service solve?</li><li>What tone and style will resonate with your audience (e.g., professional, humorous, informative)?</li></ul><h4 id="actionable-steps"><strong>Actionable Steps:</strong></h4><p>✅ Conduct market research through surveys and competitor analysis.<br>✅ Define key <strong>buyer personas</strong> or audience segments.<br>✅ Identify the <strong>core message</strong> that the explainer video should communicate.</p><h3 id="2-scriptwriting-and-storytelling"><strong>2. Scriptwriting and Storytelling</strong></h3><p>A great <strong>explainer video script</strong> is concise, engaging, and easy to follow. Your script should follow a clear structure:</p><h4 id="recommended-structure"><strong>Recommended Structure:</strong></h4><p>1️⃣ <strong>Hook</strong> – Grab attention within the first 5-10 seconds.<br>2️⃣ <strong>Problem</strong> – Present a relatable issue or pain point.<br>3️⃣ <strong>Solution</strong> – Introduce your product/service and how it solves the problem.<br>4️⃣ <strong>Benefits</strong> – Highlight key advantages and value propositions.<br>5️⃣ <strong>Call to Action (CTA)</strong> – Encourage viewers to take the next step (e.g., sign up, buy now, learn more).</p><h4 id="scriptwriting-tips"><strong>Scriptwriting Tips:</strong></h4><p>✏️ Keep it under <strong>90 seconds</strong> (about <strong>150-200 words per minute</strong>).<br>🎭 Use a conversational tone that matches your brand personality.<br>🎬 Focus on <strong>storytelling</strong> to create an emotional connection.<br>📢 Optimize for voiceover clarity—short, direct sentences work best.</p><p><strong>Pro tip:</strong> Jupitrr AI automatically adds an optimized Hook to your video using the AI</p><div class="kg-card kg-button-card kg-align-center"><a href="https://jupitrr.com/?ref=jupitrr.ghost.io" class="kg-btn kg-btn-accent">Add Hook to your video</a></div><h3 id="3-choosing-the-video-style"><strong>3. Choosing the Video Style</strong></h3><p>Now that you have your script, it’s time to decide on the <strong>visual style</strong> that best conveys your message.</p><h4 id="popular-explainer-video-styles"><strong>Popular Explainer Video Styles:</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Animated Video:</strong> Uses motion graphics, 2D/3D animation, and illustrations (Best for SaaS, tech, and education).</li><li><strong>Live-Action Video:</strong> Features real people and products, ideal for building trust (Best for e-commerce, coaching, and testimonials).</li><li><strong>Screencast Video:</strong> Records a computer screen with narration, ideal for tutorials (Best for software, training, and support guides).</li></ul><h4 id="how-to-choose-the-right-style"><strong>How to Choose the Right Style:</strong></h4><p>📌 If your product is <strong>intangible (like software)</strong> → <strong>Animated Video</strong> works best.<br>📌 If you need to build <strong>trust and human connection</strong> → <strong>Live-Action Video</strong> is ideal.<br>📌 If you’re teaching <strong>software or digital workflows</strong> → <strong>Screencast Video</strong> is the right choice.</p><p><strong>Pro tip: </strong>Use the Magic Edit on Jupitrr AI to easily edit the video with Presets for Explainer Videos</p><div class="kg-card kg-button-card kg-align-center"><a href="https://jupitrr.com/?ref=jupitrr.ghost.io" class="kg-btn kg-btn-accent">Try it now</a></div><h3 id="4-gathering-assets-and-filming"><strong>4. Gathering Assets and Filming</strong></h3><p>Once the style is decided, gather all necessary assets for production.</p><h4 id="for-animated-videos"><strong>For Animated Videos:</strong></h4><p>🎨 Design or choose animation elements (characters, backgrounds, icons).<br>📁 Use software like <strong>Adobe After Effects</strong>.<br>📢 Record a high-quality <strong>voiceover</strong> that aligns with the script and tone.</p><h4 id="for-live-action-videos"><strong>For Live-Action Videos:</strong></h4><p>🎥 Use professional <strong>camera equipment or a high-quality smartphone</strong>.<br>💡 Ensure proper <strong>lighting and sound quality</strong>.<br>🎤 Hire or cast an <strong>engaging presenter</strong> to convey authenticity.</p><h4 id="for-screencast-videos"><strong>For Screencast Videos:</strong></h4><p>💻 Use tools like <strong>Loom, or OBS Studio</strong>.<br>🎙️ Record a <strong>clear voiceover</strong> explaining each step concisely.</p><h3 id="5-editing-and-finalizing"><strong>5. Editing and Finalizing</strong></h3><p>Once you have all footage and assets, it’s time to <strong>edit the explainer video for a polished final product</strong>.</p><h4 id="key-editing-steps"><strong>Key Editing Steps:</strong></h4><p>✂️ Cut unnecessary scenes to keep the video <strong>short and engaging</strong>.<br>🎶 Add <strong>background music and sound effects</strong> for a professional touch.<br>🖋️ Overlay <strong>text and graphics</strong> to reinforce key points.<br>🎨 Use color grading and branding elements to maintain consistency.<br>🔍 Optimize the <strong>video resolution</strong> for different platforms (YouTube, website, social media).</p><h4 id="best-editing-tools"><strong>Best Editing Tools:</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Jupitrr AI </strong>(Easiest video editing tool)</li><li><strong>Adobe Premiere Pro</strong> (Advanced)</li><li><strong>Final Cut Pro</strong> (Advanced)</li></ul><h3 id="6-promoting-the-video"><strong>6. Promoting the Video</strong></h3><p>Creating a great explainer video is just half the battle—you need <strong>strategic promotion</strong> to maximize its reach.</p><h4 id="where-to-distribute-your-video"><strong>Where to Distribute Your Video:</strong></h4><p>📌 <strong>Website &amp; Landing Pages</strong> – Embed the video on homepages and sales pages.<br>📌 <strong>YouTube &amp; Vimeo</strong> – Optimize for search with strong <strong>titles, descriptions, and tags</strong>.<br>📌 <strong>Social Media</strong> – Share snippets or full videos on <strong>Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter</strong>.<br>📌 <strong>Email Marketing</strong> – Include the video in newsletters and outreach campaigns.<br>📌 <strong>Paid Ads</strong> – Run targeted video ads on <strong>YouTube Ads, Facebook Ads, and Google Display Network</strong>.</p><h4 id="seo-optimization-tips"><strong>SEO Optimization Tips:</strong></h4><p>🔍 Use <strong>main keywords</strong> like “explainer video,” “video marketing,” and “script writing” in titles and descriptions.<br>📑 Include <strong>LSI keywords</strong> like “animated video,” “storytelling,” and “visual engagement” in captions.<br>🎯 Add a <strong>transcript</strong> for search engines to index the content.</p><h2 id="examples-of-successful-explainer-videos">Examples of Successful Explainer Videos</h2><h3 id="1-crazy-egg%E2%80%99s-explainer-video"><strong>1. Crazy Egg’s Explainer Video</strong></h3><figure class="kg-card kg-embed-card"><iframe width="200" height="113" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/r1-qrVAA-Ak?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="" title="Crazy Egg 101"></iframe></figure><p><strong>What Worked:</strong> </p><p>✔️ Simple, engaging animation with a clear problem-solution approach.<br>✔️ Showcased the value of heatmaps in website analytics.<br>✔️ Strong CTA encouraging users to sign up.</p><p>📌 <strong>Impact:</strong> Increased conversions by <strong>64%</strong> on their website.</p><h3 id="2-dollar-shave-club%E2%80%99s-viral-explainer-video"><strong>2. Dollar Shave Club’s Viral Explainer Video</strong></h3><figure class="kg-card kg-embed-card"><iframe width="200" height="113" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZUG9qYTJMsI?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="" title="DollarShaveClub.com - Our Blades Are F***ing Great"></iframe></figure><p><strong>What Worked:</strong> </p><p>✔️ Live-action with a humorous and relatable tone.<br>✔️ Clearly explained the product and pricing model.<br>✔️ Strong branding and a direct CTA.</p><p>📌 <strong>Impact:</strong> Helped them gain <strong>12,000 subscribers within 48 hours</strong>.</p><h2 id="conclusion">Conclusion</h2><p>Explainer videos are a <strong>powerful tool for businesses, marketers, and educators</strong>, offering a <strong>concise, engaging, and visually compelling way</strong> to communicate key messages. By following the <strong>step-by-step process</strong> outlined in this guide—from <strong>research and scripting to editing and promotion</strong>—you can create an explainer video that <strong>drives engagement, increases conversions, and enhances brand visibility</strong>.</p><p>Transform your explainer video with <strong>Jupitrr AI, </strong>fine-tuning every detail to keep your audience hooked from start to finish.</p><p>Now, it’s your turn! Start creating your own explainer video today and leverage the power of <strong>video marketing and storytelling</strong> to captivate your audience.</p>