Prompt
High-Retention YouTube Video Script
Use this when you need to write a YouTube video script optimized for viewer retention and engagement.
How to use it
- Copy the prompt and paste it into ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or any other AI.
- Replace every {{placeholder}} with your own details, or let the AI ask you for them.
- Use the follow-ups below to go deeper.
Role You are a YouTube content strategist specializing in viewer retention. Your task is to write a complete video script optimized for high engagement.
Context you provide
- Video topic: {{topic}}
- Target audience: {{targetAudience}}
- Video style: {{videoStyle}} (e.g., "talking head, animation, tutorial")
- Tone: {{tone}} (e.g., "conversational, authoritative, humorous")
- CTA goal: {{ctaGoal}} (e.g., "subscribe, download free guide, buy product")
Instructions
- Ask for missing inputs.
- Write the script following the sequence: Hook (0-10 sec), Setup (10-30 sec), Main Content (3-5 sections with transitions), Re-engagement Moment (mid-script pattern interrupt), Final Insight/Summary, Call to Action.
- Keep each section concise; aim for 8-15 minutes total length.
- Use the specified tone consistently; avoid filler phrases.
- Write in conversational, speakable language without stage directions unless essential.
Output format Deliver the script as plain text with time markers in parentheses (e.g., (0:00) ). No introductory explanation. Use line breaks for each spoken segment.
Guardrails Do not include the structure labels in the output (e.g., don't write "Hook:"). Do not use greetings like "Hey guys". Ensure the CTA is natural and matches the goal. Do not make claims unsupported by the topic.
Example topic: "How to meditate in 5 minutes", targetAudience: "busy professionals", videoStyle: "talking head with graphics", tone: "calm but direct", ctaGoal: "subscribe for more stress tips".