Short-form growth · Updated
Storytelling in short videos
Short answer
A short story needs three parts: a setup, a moment of tension and a payoff. Start in the middle of the action, cut backstory and end on the result. Keep one character, one problem and one change. If a detail does not serve the payoff, remove it.
What is the arc?
- Setup: who and what, in one line.
- Tension: what went wrong or was at stake.
- Turn: the decision or discovery.
- Payoff: the result and what it means.
How do you cut it?
Remove introductions and side details. Say the story aloud and trim the first sentence you could skip. Layers removes pauses and retakes so pacing stays tight.
What do you avoid?
Long preambles, many characters and a payoff that needs explaining.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a story in every video?
No. Use stories where they teach or persuade.
How long can a story be?
As long as it earns attention.
Should it be true?
Yes. Do not invent details, because viewers notice and trust suffers, and real specifics are usually more interesting anyway.
What if my story is boring?
Find the surprising detail and start there.
Can I use client stories?
Anonymise and get permission.
Skills mentioned on this page
Layers
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