Explainer video script: a 7-step method (with template)

Every great animated video starts on paper. A well-written explainer video script defines what will be said, in what order and what appears on screen at each moment. Without it, the animation may look nice but feel confusing. In this guide you will learn a seven-step method and get a template ready to use with Editor de Vídeo Online.

Why the script comes before the animation

• It sets the video's length before you draw anything.
• It ensures one idea per scene, which makes animation easier.
• It prevents redrawing because "we forgot to mention something".
• It helps you choose the visual style: whiteboard, collage or both.

Step 1: define the goal in one sentence

Complete: "After watching, the viewer will ____". Examples: understand how the service works, download the guide, book a call. If it does not fit in one sentence, it is probably two videos.

Step 2: know your audience

Who will watch? What do they already know? What words do they use? A video for doctors and one for patients on the same topic need completely different scripts.

Step 3: open with the problem

The first seconds decide whether people keep watching. Start with a pain point, a question or a surprising fact:

• "Ever lost a whole afternoon editing a simple video?"
• "8 out of 10 students forget a lesson within a week."

Step 4: present the solution

Show the way out in simple terms. This is where your product, method or main idea comes in. Avoid listing every feature; focus on the benefit.

Step 5: explain how it works in 3 steps

The brain loves threes. Split the explanation into three short steps. Each step becomes a scene with a drawing or a collage.

Step 6: prove it

A number, a testimonial, a before-and-after. Proof makes the explanation credible.

Step 7: close with a call to action

Say exactly what the viewer should do now: "Click the link", "Comment your question", "Save this video". One call to action works better than several.

Two-column script template

The two-column format (audio and visuals) is the standard for explainer videos:

From script to Editor de Vídeo Online

1. Split the script into scenes (each table row).
2. For each scene, create or generate an image: a sketch for Hand drawing, artwork for Vox collage.
3. Generate and record each scene.
4. Put everything together in the Studio, trimming and setting transitions. See how to edit the final video.
5. Add voice-over and music in your preferred editor, as explained in how to add narration and music.

Frequently asked questions

What is the ideal length for an explainer video?

Between 60 and 120 seconds in most cases. For social media, under 60 seconds. We go deeper in the ideal explainer video length.

Should I record the narration before animating?

Not required, but it helps. With the audio ready, you know the exact duration of each scene and can match the animation pace.

Can I use AI to write the script?

Use it as a first draft. Then revise it in your audience's language, cut the fluff and double-check facts.

Conclusion

A seven-step script — goal, audience, problem, solution, how it works, proof and call to action — solves 80% of an explainer video. With it in hand, animating becomes easy. Open Editor de Vídeo Online and start with your first scene.