Social media · Updated
How to write post captions for social videos
Short answer
A post caption should add context the video lacks: a clear first line, one extra piece of value, natural keywords and a single call to action. Write for each platform's audience, keep hashtags relevant and few, and never duplicate the on-screen text word for word. Test caption styles over several posts.
What is a good structure?
- First line states the point or question.
- One extra detail not in the video.
- Natural keywords the audience searches.
- One call to action.
- A few relevant tags.
How do post captions differ from video captions?
Video captions are on-screen text from speech, as in Explainer. Post captions are the text under the post, written separately.
What should you avoid?
Long blocks of text, irrelevant tags and misleading hooks.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a post caption be?
As long as it needs to be useful, with the key point near the start.
Do hashtags help?
Effects vary and change, so use a few relevant ones and test.
Should the caption repeat the video?
No. Add context or a next step instead.
Should I include keywords?
Yes, naturally, since platforms use text to understand a post.
Skills mentioned on this page
Explainer
Turns a talking clip into a clear lesson with gold word-by-word captions and points on screen.
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