✅ Video Intro Checklist

Audit your video hooks and ensure your introduction captures and keeps viewer attention across any platform.

Check Your Intro

Intro Hook Checklist


💡 Example Usage

Input Video: "How to Grow on YouTube" / YouTube Long-form / 10 of 12 items checked

Output Score: 83% — Strong intro. Missing: On-screen text reinforces hook, No awkward silence.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a YouTube video intro be?

Under 30 seconds for long-form. Under 5 seconds for Shorts and TikTok. The fastest creators deliver their hook in the first sentence. Every second of intro that doesn't deliver value loses viewers.

What is the most common intro mistake on YouTube?

Starting with "Hey guys! Welcome back to my channel! If you're new here, my name is..." — This is the single most common retention killer. Get to the value immediately.

Should I have a branded intro animation?

No — or at least, not at the start. Branded intros kill retention. If you want brand identity, integrate it subtly into your thumbnail style, tone, and editing — not a 5-second bumper at the start.