You are watching a video online. The graphics of the video are aesthetic, but the voice over or captioning uses lengthy sentence structures. Imagine how long it would take until you zone out. Not much time, I’d bet. This demonstrates the value of brevity, and is just one of the reasons videos are more captivating when they are shorter in length.
In this era of numerous distractions and shortened attention spans, capturing your audience’s attention has become the hardest task. But there’s a catch, and it isn’t in the music or highly stylized graphics; rather, it is in the scripting of your message. Let me tell you why short sentences are highly effective and how you can implement them in your videos to make them more appealing.
The Science Behind Short Sentences
Can you believe that our brains work more quickly with shorter sentences? Cognitive science has conducted research which shows that summarizing information into short bites greatly improves retention and understanding. On the other hand, long sentences have the potential to overwhelm your audience. They are similar to an overfilled plate of food – too much provided at once can ruin the experience.
Take this as an example:
- Long sentence: “The key to creating videos that resonate with your audience lies in ensuring that your script is concise, direct, and avoids unnecessary verbosity that could potentially dilute your message.”
- Short sentence: “To make great videos, keep your script concise.”
Which of these options would you like to listen to? I think we have the answer.
Short Sentences = Clear Messages
You rarely have the opportunity to pause and reflect on things while watching a video. You need everything to be clear, and short sentences enhance that clarity. They help get your point across immediately. Just like signposts that guide people on a road, short sentences are also very easy to follow.
Imagine you are working on a branding video;
- Instead of: “We are committed to provide transformative change in the industry by solving the challenges of contemporary consumers with cutting-edge technology concepts.”
- Use: “‘We create solutions for modern needs.”
That is effective and simple.
They Keep the Energy High
Consider these phrases to be the “drums” of your script. Short sentences add rhythm and utmost energy to your videos all while making sure your audience is engaged from start to finish.
Look at these two sentences.
- Slow-paced: “When thinking about the benefits of our product, it is equally important to consider the sociable aspects.”
- Breezy: “Our product is useful. It is gratifying. It works.”
The second example feels more dynamic, doesn’t it? That’s the magic of brevity.
Short Sentences Work Across Cultures
If your video reaches people globally, complex and lengthy sentences should be avoided at all costs. Why? Because they can be broken down more easily and better communicated cross-creed. Complex sentences can get lost while short sentences preserve the essence of your message.
- Let’s assume your video targets an international audience:
- Overcomplicated: “Our aim is to develop an experience that effortlessly bridges cultural gaps and ensures every user feels respected and comprehended.”
- Universal: “We value everyone. Our experience works everywhere.”
Short statements transform inaccessible content into content that everyone can access.
Perfect for Social Media
Now widely used bearing focus on social media, think about TikTok, Instagram, and even Youtube Shorts. All of these applications rely on brief content for video views.
- The following is an example of an ad that captures its intended audience within the first few seconds: “Save time. Save money. Shop now.”
- Or “Our new application has an efficient shopping experience that you will love and it allows the user to save time and money.”
On a social media platform, being opinionated and assertive is not only a necessity, but the only way ahead.
Tips for Writing Short Sentences
Now that you know why short sentences are effective, let’s talk about how to write them:
- Stick to One Idea Per Sentence
- Don’t try to cram multiple points into one sentence. Break them up.
- Example: “Our app is fast. It’s reliable. You’ll love using it.”
- Use Simple Words
- Complex words can make sentences feel longer. Stick to plain language.
- Example: Instead of “utilize,” say “use.”
- Cut Out Fluff
- If a word doesn’t add value, remove it.
- Example: “This product is really, absolutely, incredibly amazing” becomes “This product is amazing.”
- Write Like You Speak
- Natural language is often shorter. Read your script out loud to spot any clunky sentences.
- Example: “Let’s get started” instead of “Now, let us begin the process.”
- Practice the Rule of Three
- Group ideas into threes for impact.
- Example: “Fast. Reliable. Affordable.”
The Emotional Connection
Concise phrases not only improve comprehension—they enhance emotional appeal as well. Why? Because they are straightforward.
For instance:
- Long: “We are extremely passionate about making a difference in the lives of our customers by providing them with innovative solutions.”
- Short: “We care. We innovate. We make a difference.”
That is way more powerful and personal than the first version.
Short Sentences, Big Results
A video ad or an educational video, a brand story or tutorial- short sentences will aid you in every instance. They are powerful when it comes to making messages easier to absorb, unforgettable, and captivating. They focus on the critical aspects of capturing attention in a world where focus is scant.
The next time you intend to write a script, always remember to say cut down on the fluff. Your audience, when provided with a focused message in clear short bursts will thank you for the experience.
Ready to Create Better Videos?
Creators and brands alike can turn to Reset Media for assistance in creating captivating videos which interact with their audience on a personal level. We offer everything from script writing advice to video production consulting. Let’s ensure your next video becomes a viral sensation. Go to Reset Media today