YouTube Shorts
YouTube Shorts is YouTube's short-form vertical video format, allowing creators to upload videos up to 60 seconds in length. It's YouTube's response to the popularity of TikTok and Instagram Reels.
Key features
Short duration: Up to 60 seconds per videoVertical format: 9:16 aspect ratio, mobile-optimizedMusic library: Access to YouTube's extensive audio libraryCreation tools: Built-in editing and effectsShorts shelf: Dedicated section on YouTube for short contentMonetization: Eligible for YouTube Partner ProgramCross-platform: Works on mobile and desktopWhy it matters
Massive reach: Access to YouTube's 2+ billion usersSEO benefits: Shorts can rank in search resultsMonetization: Potential to earn from short contentAlgorithm boost: Can drive traffic to longer videosCross-promotion: Easy to repurpose content from other platformsLess competition: Newer format with less saturationContent strategy
Trending topics: Jump on viral trends and challengesEducational content: Quick tutorials and tipsBehind-the-scenes: Show your process or daily lifeTeasers: Preview longer content on your channelUser-generated content: Encourage audience participationCross-platform repurposing: Adapt TikTok/Instagram contentBest practices
Hook immediately: Capture attention in first 3 secondsUse trending audio: Leverage popular sounds and musicOptimize for mobile: Ensure text is readable on small screensInclude captions: Make content accessiblePost consistently: Regular uploads perform betterEngage with comments: Build community through interactionUse relevant hashtags: Help with discoverabilityTechnical specs
Duration: 15-60 secondsAspect ratio: 9:16 (vertical)Resolution: 1080x1920 pixels minimumFile size: Up to 1GBFormats: MP4, MOV, AVI, WMV, FLV, WebMAnalytics to track
Views: Total video viewsWatch time: How long viewers watchEngagement: Likes, comments, sharesSubscriber growth: New subscribers gainedTraffic sources: Where viewers discover your ShortsDemographics: Age, gender, location of viewers
