As a content creator, one of the most important things is to ensure that your audience remains engaged throughout your videos. Whether you are creating vlogs, tutorials, or any other type of video content, adding words to your videos can greatly enhance viewer engagement. Adding written text to your videos can clarify your message, emphasize key points, and create a more polished look overall. In this blog post, we will explore some of the different methods you can use to add words to your YouTube videos and the pros and cons of each method.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before diving into the methods of adding words to your YouTube videos, there are a few essential tools that you will need to get started. These include:
1. Video editing software: to add and edit text to your videos.
2. Text editor: to create the text that you want to add to your videos.
3. A computer or laptop: to use the editing software on.
4. High-quality microphone: to record clear and crisp sound.
5. A YouTube channel: to upload the videos to.
What Should I Pay Attention to?
Before you start adding words to your YouTube videos, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:
1. Keep it concise: viewers tend to have short attention spans, so it’s important to keep text overlays brief and to the point.
2. Boost readability: use large and legible fonts that contrast well with the background. Avoid using overly decorative fonts or ones that are difficult to read.
3. Place text strategically: text should be placed where it complements the video content and does not obstruct important visuals or distract from the video overall.
4. Use consistent formatting: use the same font, font size, and color for all text overlays throughout your video.
Method 1: Using YouTube’s Built-in Captioning Tool
YouTube provides captioning tools as a built-in feature that allows users to add text to their videos. Here are the steps to follow to add captions to your video:
1. Log in: Log in to your YouTube account and select the video you want to add captions to.
2. Click on the video manager: Click on the video manager and select the "Subtitles/CC" option.
3. Choose a language: Click the "Add New Subtitles or CC" and choose your video’s language.
4. Add captions: Type in your captions and adjust the timing for when they appear.
5. Save and publish: Once your captions are complete, save them and publish your video.
Pros
– Easy to use and free
– Guaranteed accuracy
– Supports multiple languages
Cons
– Time-consuming
– May not be as visually appealing as some other methods
– Limited formatting options
Method 2: External Software
Using external software allows you greater flexibility to add text in different formats and styles. Here’s how to do it:
1. Choose software: There is a variety of software that you can use, such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or Camtasia. Choose one that works for you as all of them have the same procedure.
2. Create a new project: Create a new project on your chosen software and import your video footage.
3. Add text: Drag and drop the text tool and then add the text you want to appear in your video.
4. Adjust text position and size: Adjust the size and position of the text to ensure it fits seamlessly with the video content.
5. Save and export: Save and export your video with the added text.
Pros
– More flexible than YouTube’s built-in tool
– High accuracy and better effects
– Allows for more formatting options
Cons
– Can be expensive
– Steep learning curve for beginners
– Requires more time to edit
Method 3: Using Online Captioning Services
Online captioning services are an alternative way to add text to your YouTube videos. These services allow for quick turnaround times and are ideal if you’re looking to add captions to several videos simultaneously. Follow these steps:
1. Choose a captioning service: There are a variety of services to choose from, such as Rev, 3play Media, and CaptionSync.
2. Upload your video: Upload the video you want to add captions to by following the instructions provided on the website.
3. Order captions: Once uploaded, choose the type of captions you want and the language.
4. Wait for captions: Wait a few minutes (or hours, depending on the service) for the captions to be generated.
5. Download and publish: When your captions are ready, you can download them and publish them along with your video.
Pros
– Fast turnaround time
– High accuracy and professional quality
– Can generate captions for multiple languages simultaneously
Cons
– Can be expensive, especially for multiple videos
– Less control over the editing process
– Quality can vary across different services
Why Can’t I Add Words to My YouTube Video?
There could be various reasons why you’re facing difficulties adding words to your YouTube videos. Here are some of the most common issues and their fixes:
1. The video has already been published: If your video has already been published, you will have to unpublish it, add the text, and then republish it.
2. The text is too long: If your text is too long, it may not fit in the video’s frame. Shorten the text and keep it relevant to the video.
3. YouTube’s policies: YouTube has strict policies regarding content that violates their terms of service. Ensure that your text does not breach any guidelines.
Suggestions
– Keep the text short and precise.
– Be consistent throughout the video.
– Use a font that is legible for viewers.
– Use appropriate text color and get creative with your styling.
– Don’t add too much text as it can be distracting.
FAQs:
Q1. Can I add text to an already published YouTube video?
A1. Yes, you can. Go to your video Manager, select the video you want to edit and click on ‘Edit’. After making the necessary changes to the video, click on ‘Save Changes’ and republish the video.
Q2. Can I use copyrighted fonts in my YouTube video text?
A2. No, it is illegal to use copyrighted fonts in any work that you create, including video content.
Q3. Is there any recommended font style for adding text to YouTube videos?
A3. Yes, the recommended font style for adding text to YouTube videos is sans-serif, as it is more legible and easier to read on screen.
Q4. Can I generate captions for multiple languages using online caption services?
A4. Yes, online caption services like Rev and CaptionSync support captions for multiple languages. Some services, like 3play Media, even allow for translation services.
Q5. Can I add text to my YouTube video using my smartphone?
A5. Although it is not recommended, you can add text to your YouTube video using some video editing apps like FilmoraGo or VivaVideo.
Conclusion
Adding text to your YouTube videos can greatly enhance viewer engagement and make your content more polished and professional. With these methods, you can easily add text to your videos while keeping your message concise and visually appealing. Whether you choose YouTube’s built-in caption tool, external software, or online captioning services, remember to keep readability, consistency, and formatting in mind throughout the process.