YouTube intro script template: hook, promise, start
Updated November 2, 2026 · Anthony Delmotte
In short. A good YouTube intro takes 15 to 30 seconds, 35 to 70 words: a hook in the first sentence, what the viewer will get, one reason to trust you, then straight into the content. No “hey guys, welcome back” before the hook.
The template
Replace everything in [brackets] before you read. Each paragraph becomes one card. 64 words as written, before you fill in the brackets.
[Hook: the result, a surprising fact, or a question your viewer is asking.]
In this video, I’ll show you [exactly what they will get], step by step.
I’ve [your credibility: done this for X years, tested Y tools, made the mistake myself].
And stay to the end, because [a reason: a bonus tip, the result, a mistake to avoid].
Let’s start with [first step].
How to make it yours
Write the hook last
Once the video is written, you know its strongest promise. Put that first.
Show, then tell
If you can, open on the result on screen while you say the hook.
Cut the channel intro
Name and channel can come after the first minute, or never.
Read it to the lens
The intro is where reading shows most: learn the hook, read the rest from a prompter under the camera.