Whether you call it a tutorial, explainer, training, or any other name, you’ve likely watched dozens of how‑to videos online. Some shine, others fall flat. If you’re ready to produce one that actually delivers value, you’re in the right place.
What Is a Tutorial Video?
A top‑quality tutorial video:
- Answers the viewer’s question immediately.
- Provides a thorough, step‑by‑step explanation.
- Guides the audience toward the next action.
From software demos to DIY projects, any content that imparts knowledge can be a tutorial. The goal is to leave viewers with something valuable—a clear solution or skill they can apply.
Companies use tutorials to explain products, teams use screen recordings for asynchronous training, and creators publish guides to help fans beat challenges. That breadth explains why one‑third of internet users watch at least one tutorial each week.
How to Make a Tutorial Video
While there’s no single recipe, the following steps create a framework that works for most subjects.
1. Start With a Storyboard
Before you record, outline the video’s flow. Identify the core topic—perhaps a frequent customer question or a new onboarding step—and list the tools needed. Map out each step chronologically, so you can see the logical progression from start to finish.
Example: A tutorial on changing a tire begins with an overview, lists required tools, and then breaks the process into clear, numbered steps.
2. Script Your Content
A well‑written script keeps the message concise and easy to follow. Draft a first version, then read it aloud. Adjust phrasing to sound natural, not robotic. Keep the tone consistent with your brand voice—whether that’s friendly, authoritative, or casual.
3. Plan Camera Presence
Decide when you’ll appear on camera versus when the focus will shift to B‑roll or screen share. A structured intro, body, and conclusion helps viewers stay engaged and makes editing simpler.
4. Set Up Equipment and Record
Good audio and video are non‑negotiable. Here are key considerations:
Microphone
Record in a quiet space and use an external mic instead of the built‑in camera mic. A budget lavalier mic can cost as little as $10. Even an old headphone mic can be repurposed by taping it to your shirt.
Lighting
Position yourself so natural or artificial light falls from the front. If filming near a window, close curtains behind you to eliminate shadows, or use a white sheet to diffuse light.
Webcam Position
Place the webcam slightly above eye level—stacking books under a laptop works well. Look up at the camera, not down, to avoid double‑chin distortion.
5. Edit Your Tutorial Video
Use a robust editor like WeVideo to polish the footage. Trim unnecessary parts, add text overlays, and incorporate subtle sound effects for emphasis.
Highlighting Key Moments
- Zoom‑in animations enlarge critical actions.
- Text callouts label each step.
- Sound cues (ding, whoosh, pop) reinforce visual cues.
Table of Contents
If covering multiple topics, list timestamps at the beginning so viewers can jump to the section they need.
Background Music
Background tracks fill silent gaps but should never overpower narration. Keep volume low and choose royalty‑free music to avoid licensing issues.
6. Publish Your Video
Choose a platform that matches your goals:
YouTube
Free, highly discoverable, and allows embedding on your site. Optimize titles, descriptions, and tags for search to stand out from competitors.
Social Media
Post on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc., tailoring length to each channel’s best practices (e.g., 30–45 s on Twitter).
Paid Hosting
Services like Vimeo, Wistia, or Vidyard offer faster load times, advanced analytics, and A/B testing—ideal for embedding on high‑traffic sites.
30 Tutorial Video Ideas & Frameworks
Here are 30 proven formats to spark your next tutorial. Browse the examples, draft a script, shoot, and edit—then publish.
Step‑by‑Step Process Videos
- How to change a tire – 10 easy steps.
- Writing compelling dialogue – 6 concise steps.
- Rebuilding happiness – 4 actionable steps.
- Disagreeing with a boss – 4 conflict‑resolution steps.
- Making bread – 10 foundational steps.
Follow‑Along Videos
- Bob Ross painting – guided lessons.
- Hand embroidery basics – 10-minute stitch demo.
- Procreate painting process – beginner’s guide.
- Modern dance tutorial – pause and repeat.
- Beginner stretching routine – step‑by‑step flow.
Pro Tips & Hacks
- 10 closet organization hacks.
- Top 20 MacBook tips.
- 11 house cleaning hacks.
- 4 tips for better public speaking.
- 10 tips for entering the gaming industry.
“101” Videos
- Hair color theory 101.
- Radiology 101 – reading chest X‑rays.
- Tornadoes 101 – beginner’s guide.
- Coding 101 – from binary to application.
- Meditation 101 – integrating mindfulness.
Talking‑Head Videos
- 50/30/20 rule – budgeting made simple.
- Grant writing for nonprofits – 10 expert tips.
- Staying motivated to lose weight – coach’s insights.
- Becoming confident – personal story.
- Better motherhood – five nurturing goals.
Screen‑Recording Tutorials
- Creating bite‑size social videos.
- Building a 2D game in Unity.
- Using auto‑layout in Figma.
- ClickUp task dependencies.
- Blender fundamentals.
With this guide and the 30 ideas above, you’re ready to craft clear, professional tutorial videos that educate and inspire. Happy creating!