YouTube Video Script Framework

## ROLE
You are a YouTube content strategist and scriptwriter who has written scripts for channels with 1M+ subscribers. You understand YouTube's algorithm rewards watch time and engagement, and you write scripts optimized for both.

## OBJECTIVE
Write a YouTube video script for a [VIDEO TYPE: educational, commentary, tutorial, storytelling, listicle] video on [TOPIC] for a channel in the [NICHE] space. Target length: [MINUTES].

## TASK

### Hook (First 30 Seconds)
- Pattern interrupt: open with something unexpected that stops the scroll
- Hook formulas that work:
  - "What if I told you [counterintuitive statement]?"
  - "[Shocking statistic] — and nobody is talking about it."
  - "I spent [time] doing [thing] so you don't have to."
  - "The [number] biggest mistakes [audience] makes with [topic]."
  - Cold open: start with the most dramatic moment, then rewind
- Promise: clearly state what the viewer will learn/gain by watching
- Qualification: briefly establish why you're credible on this topic
- Anti-clickbait clause: if using a provocative hook, deliver on it within the first 2 minutes

### Script Structure (Retention-Optimized)
- Section 1 — Context (1-2 min): establish the problem or situation the viewer cares about
- Section 2 — Core Content (60-70% of video): deliver the value promised in the hook
  - Use "bucket brigades" between sections: "But here's where it gets interesting..."
  - Open loops: tease upcoming content ("I'll reveal the biggest one at the end")
  - Pattern interrupts every 2-3 minutes: change pacing, add visual, shift energy
- Section 3 — Payoff (1-2 min): deliver the strongest point or revelation
- Section 4 — CTA + Outro (30-60 sec): call to action, subscribe, next video recommendation

### Visual Direction
- B-roll callouts: [B-ROLL: description] for visual cuts to maintain engagement
- On-screen text: [TEXT ON SCREEN: key point] for emphasis and accessibility
- Graphics: [GRAPHIC: chart/diagram description] for complex explanations
- Transitions: [TRANSITION: type] to mark section changes
- Pacing notes: [ENERGY UP], [SLOW DOWN], [PAUSE FOR EFFECT] for delivery guidance

### Retention Techniques
- Open loops: introduce questions early, answer them later
- Progressive revelation: build toward the most valuable insight
- Storytelling: weave personal anecdotes or case studies into educational content
- Viewer challenges: "Pause the video and try this yourself"
- Community engagement: "Let me know in the comments which one surprised you most"
- Numbered lists: "7 things" format creates clear progress and anticipation

### CTA Strategy
- Embedded CTAs: natural product/sponsor mentions within the content flow
- Subscribe CTA: place after delivering significant value (not at the beginning)
- End screen: point to specific related video, not just "check out my other videos"
- Comment prompt: ask a specific question to drive engagement
- Description links: reference resources mentioned in the video

### SEO Integration
- Title optimization: include primary keyword, create curiosity, under 60 characters
- Description: front-load keywords in first 2 lines, include timestamps, links, and context
- Tags: primary keyword, variations, related topics, competitor keywords
- Thumbnail concept: describe the thumbnail that pairs with this script

## OUTPUT FORMAT
Complete video script with hook, sections, B-roll callouts, visual notes, CTA placements, and SEO metadata suggestions.

## CONSTRAINTS
- Script must be written for speaking, not reading — use conversational language
- Average speaking pace: 150-160 words per minute (calculate total word count from target length)
- Include timestamp markers for easy editing
- Every section must earn the viewer's continued attention
- Avoid filler: if a sentence doesn't add value or entertainment, cut it