Video production is complex and time-consuming, but there are many ways to make instructional videos without hiring a professional. And creating instructional videos can be a great way to learn new skills or teach others about your products or services.

You will need a good camera, mic, and editing software to create an instructional video.

A good camera should have a wide range of recording options and be able to capture high-quality footage in low light conditions. A mic should be able to pick up sound clearly from a distance and be adjustable to be placed close to the subject matter for optimal recording.

Editing software should have features that allow you to cut, copy, paste easily, and add music or sound effects to your videos.

Making instructional videos can be a fun and rewarding experience. However, it can be difficult to start from scratch if you don’t have any experience making videos.

This article will teach you how to prepare a storyboard and script for your instructional videos.

An Instructional Video – What is it exactly?

In this article, we will discuss the definition of an instructional video, how to make one, and the common mistakes that people make when creating them. You can also learn how to make an instructional video and do it yourself.

Before you start, however, it’s important to define the subject and audience of your video. This will help you determine your target market’s demographic information, interests, concerns, and goals.

An instructional video is a type of video used to teach a skill or concept. They can be used in instructional-driven websites, blogs, and e-learning platforms. Businesses themselves can also create them as marketing materials or customer support assets.

How to make an Instructional Video – A Step-by-Step Guide

There are a few things that you’ll need to make an instructional video. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make an instructional video:

Step 1: Know Your Audience

Your audience is essential when making instructional videos. Make sure you know your audience and what they need from your video.

Step 2: Prepare Storyboard and Script

A storyboard is a graphic representation of the sequence of shots in your video. Using a presentation editor will help you plan your video layout, look, and visual effects.

You should also create a script for your video. A script contains all the dialogue and sound effects in your video. It also tells the viewer what to expect at each point in the video.

Step 3: Go for Narration Recording

To create your instructional video, you’ll need to record your narration. To do this, launch your narration recording software and begin recording your voice.

You can use any method that works best for you – from a microphone attached to your computer to speaking into a phone call recorder.

Step 4: Record Screen and/or Capture Video

Record your screen or capture the video of whatever you’re teaching. Next, you’ll need to edit the video to look professional. This means adding sound and graphics.

Step 5: Opt for Video Editing

Edit the footage together so that it looks like a professional video tutorial. For video editing, here are some tips on how to make instructional videos on your own:

1. Choose a good theme. Your video should have a coherent theme, and you should use footage that supports this theme. For example, if you’re making a video about using a product, include footage of the product in action.
2. Choose the right camera. You need a good camera if you want to make sound instructional videos. A good camera will give you clear footage that is easy to edit.
3. Plan your shots carefully. You need to plan your shots carefully if you want them to look professional. For example, you need to consider how long each shot will be and where the camera will be placed concerning the subject matter of the shot.
4. Use voiceover narration. You can use voiceover narration if you don’t have enough time or knowledge to shoot and edit your video.

Step 6: Incorporate a Video Intro

But if you want to create high-quality instructional videos to help your customers learn something new, you know how to make introductions and incorporate the same.

Types of Video Intros

There are two main types of video intros: Lead-in and Outro.

Lead-in videos are used to introduce the main topic of the video. They typically start with a few seconds of footage that sets the mood and introduces the main characters. Lead-in videos can also include a teaser or preview of what will happen in the video’s main content.

Outro videos are an ending summary or goodbye message for your customers. Outros usually have short footage that wraps up the main points of the video and leaves your viewers.

Step 7: Share the Video Online

When you’re done with your first video tutorial, share it online using one of the many online sharing platforms.

Mistakes While Creating Instructional Videos

Many mistakes might occur that you should avoid while creating an instructional video. While the first two may be obvious, you should always consider the next one.

There are a few mistakes that can be made while creating instructional videos.

#1 Not Knowing the Target Audiences

One of the biggest challenges faced by businesses when creating instructional videos is coming up with a target audience. This can be difficult because not everyone who watches instructional videos is likely to be in your target market.

By focusing on the target audiences and targeting the right types of videos, businesses can create instructional videos that are both useful and helpful.

#2 Making the Video Perfect to The Core!

Making instructional videos can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to remember that not every video has to be perfect to be effective. Sometimes, making a video that is a little rough around the edges can be more effective.

Yet another biggest mistake people make when making instructional videos is trying to make them perfect. This often results in boring or ineffective videos. Instead, it’s better to focus on creating a video that is engaging and easy to understand.

#3 Too Much Finicky About Types of Equipment

There are many ways to make instructional videos. You can use any video camera that you have, or you can use a phone camera.

The most important thing is to have good quality footage. You don’t want your viewers to be disappointed when they watch your videos.

To get good quality footage, you must ensure that your equipment is well-equipped. You should have a good microphone, lighting, and editing software. All of these things will help to make your videos look professional.

You also need to ensure that you are comfortable with the equipment you are using. It will show in your footage if you are uncomfortable shooting a video.

#4 Being Unsure of The Content

This mistake is particularly common among amateur video makers. While it is possible to edit videos, it is essential to make sure that the content of the video is educational and brief.

Using long-winded language and trying to cover too many things in one video will only make it seem amateurish and ineffective.

#5 Not Writing a Formal Script

Another common mistake is not writing a formal script. While screenwriting is not rocket science, it helps to organize your thoughts into a cohesive story.

Once you’ve written the script, you should show it to other team members and read it out loud to hear awkward sentences. This way, you’ll better understand how your video should sound. Don’t forget to include relevant information about the topic.

Ultimately, making instructional videos is a fun and rewarding experience. However, it’s important to remember that not every video has to be perfect to be effective.

Some User-friendly tips

Sometimes making a video that is a little rough around the edges can be more effective.

Here are some tips on how to do it yourself:

1. Choose the right tool for the job. If you’re just starting out, shooting with a phone or a camera lens you can hold in your hand is probably the best option. If you’re shooting for an online audience, consider investing in a camera and software that can handle high-quality video production.
2. Plan your shots. Before you start filming, figure out what you want to say and where you want to focus your shots. You’ll need good composition and lighting so your viewers can understand what you’re talking about.
3. Do not overuse slow motion and reverse footage. This can be distracting and make the video difficult to follow.
4. Use clear and concise language when writing your scripts. This will make it easier for viewers to understand what is being taught.
5. Plan your video layout carefully. Including subtitles, graphics, and music can help make the video more engaging and visually appealing.
6. Edit and polish your footage. Once you’ve finished filming, it’s time to edit and polish your footage. Use editing software to trim away extraneous material, adjust levels, and add titles, music, and other audio effects.
7. Make sure your video is optimized for online viewing, including using an HD resolution or uploading to a platform such as YouTube, which supports high-definition playback.
8. Be sure to give credit where credit is due, including providing links to the source material used in your videos. This will help promote your content and encourage others to learn more about the topic you are discussing.
9. Upload and share your video online. Once you’ve finished editing, it’s time to upload your video online and share it with friends and family!

Summing-up

Before you start filming your video, you must determine your target audience. If you want your video to be helpful to beginners, ensure you understand their problems and what they are looking for. Then, create a script that will give your viewers the necessary information. Make your voiceovers conversational, not robotic.

It’s a good idea to observe and record threads to see what topics come up often. Document these topics for future reference. You may want to start with a video tutorial for a product or service.

Making instructional videos can be a great way to communicate your knowledge and skills to others. If you want to make your instructional videos, start planning now!