The video thumbnail and the video title are probably the two most important things to making a good first impression. A good title paired with a good thumbnail can improve the click-through rate, which would lead to more views and success on the platform.
In our experience on the platform, we have realised how important this is. To make the title-finding process easier, we have compiled a list of principles whose acronym is DARES. Let’s have a look into it.
Descriptive
In seeming contrast to succinct, descriptive isn’t what you think it means. When we say descriptive, we mean you must find the best adjective words to help elicit that emotion and also help make the title succinct and aesthetic. This one is all about the adjectives. We highly recommend you use this resource to delve further into choosing words (it’s a very important process!)
Aesthetic
This one is a lot more intuitive and instinctual than the others. You must be able to look at your title and see it as an ‘aesthetic block of words’ without necessarily even reading the text. This is where casing comes in (we use title case) as well as full CAPS on certain words that should be emphasised to play on the Emotional side of things.
Realistic
We don’t do clickbait here. We do realistic and reasonable clickbait. This means when the viewer clicks on our vid, they’re gonna get what they came for. This DOESN’T mean you have to be bland with your titles. You are free, and in reality, encouraged to embellish the title a little bit as long as it still falls within the realm of reason and isn’t too far out. Use your judgment on these ones.
Emotional
The title must elicit strong emotions from the potential viewer. They must see the title and have an emotional impulse to click on it.
Succinct
The title must not be overly descriptive. It must be just the right length and encapsulate the idea attractively enough that the viewer must click.
Let’s look at a few examples so you can have a better understanding of what makes a title great
Descriptive?
This title is perfectly descriptive, using the catchwords’ SS Look nice’ to elicit emotions from the potential viewer.
Aesthetic?
This title is at the perfect level of aesthetic. Uses a perfect title case and also full caps when the emphasis is needed.
Realistic?
This title is very realistic.
Emotional?
This title’s genius lies in the fact that it compares something horrible with something even more horrible. This is a powerful double down that would fill the average American educated viewer with disgust. They’re usually taught that the SS is one of the worst organisations in history, only to be hit with another one that is claimed to be worse. How can this be? I must click to find out.
Succinct?
This title is the perfect level of succinctness.
Descriptive?
This title’s strong point is not in its descriptiveness, however, the adjective Disturb is used which illustrates its point well enough and helps make it succinct.
Aesthetic?
This one looks aesthetic. The casing of DISTURBED is a big part of this and also helps emphasise the emotional side.
Realistic?
It is realistic and is reflected in the video.
Emotional?
The word disturbed is negative, and it is a scientific fact that people prefer negative news over positive. It raises viewer curiosity and encourages you to click at your own risk.
Succinct?
The title is very succinct (almost too much so) and gets the job done.
We hope this helped you, check out our article on recording professional narrations here.