40 Video Topics to Keep Your Audience Engaged

To captivate your YouTube audience, consider not only the video quality but also the content format. This guide offers a deep dive into engaging video formats with illustrative examples.

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The 40 Formats Ideas

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1. Vlogs and Personal Stories

Vlogs are personal video journals where you can share daily activities, trips, or milestones. They provide a raw, unfiltered look into your life. Example: Casey Neistat often combines storytelling techniques with his day-to-day experiences, making even mundane activities intriguing.

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2. Interviews and Conversations

This format involves bringing guests onto your platform to discuss various topics. It's a way to introduce fresh perspectives and knowledge to your audience. Example: The Joe Rogan Experience encompasses a broad range of guests, from scientists to celebrities, discussing everything from life philosophies to current events.

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3. Educational and How-To Videos

These videos are designed to instruct or inform. They're great for building a loyal audience who wants to learn a particular skill or topic. Example: Khan Academy breaks down complex subjects like math and science into digestible video lessons.

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4. Reviews and Recommendations

Help viewers make decisions by reviewing products or services. These videos can be highly sought-after before purchases. Example: MKBHD dives deep into tech products, analysing their features, aesthetics, and value.

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5. Listicles and Countdowns

People love curated lists! These videos are easy to digest and share, often sparking debates about what should or shouldn't have made the cut. Example: WatchMojo is renowned for their diverse “Top 10” lists spanning movies, music, pop culture, and more.

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6. Challenges and Experiments

Whether it's a viral internet challenge or a personal experiment, these videos offer entertainment and unpredictability. Example: The Try Guys undertake a variety of challenges, often venturing outside their comfort zones, which makes for entertaining content.

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7. Comedy and Entertainment

This format leverages humour, satire, or skits. It offers viewers a break from their routine and is highly shareable. Example: Lilly Singh (Superwoman) uses comedic skits to touch on relatable topics, often infusing them with social commentary.

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8. News and Current Events

Analyse current events or discuss news while offering a unique spin or perspective to stand out. Example: Philip DeFranco dissects daily news, providing a balanced view and stimulating discussions.

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9. Behind-the-Scenes and Making-of Videos

Let viewers peek behind the curtain. This format builds a deeper connection with your audience by revealing processes or behind-the-scenes moments. Example: Peter McKinnon often shares the creative processes behind his photography, granting insights into his techniques.

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10. Live Streaming and Q&A Sessions

Engage directly with your audience in real time, allowing for spontaneous interactions. Example: PewDiePie often streams games, providing commentary and interacting with his audience.

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11. Unboxing and Product Showcases

Capture the excitement of unveiling a new product. The genuine first impressions offer viewers a raw reaction to new items. Example: Unbox Therapy is known for showcasing the latest gadgets, offering an in-depth look at product features.

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12. Travel and Adventure

Chronicle travels, offering viewers a vicarious experience. It can be informative, showcasing destinations, or simply an adventure vlog. Example: FunForLouis captures his global adventures, infusing them with cultural insights.

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13. Collaborations and Guest Appearances

Teaming up with other creators or inviting guests can introduce your content to a wider audience and provide fresh content angles. Example: James Charles often collaborates with fellow YouTubers or celebrities, merging fan bases and content styles.

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14. Animation and Storytelling

Use animation to depict stories or complex topics. This format is versatile and can simplify intricate subjects. Example: Kurzgesagt employs animation to explain science, philosophy, and more in an engaging way.

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15. Gaming and Let's Play Videos

Dive into the world of gaming by showcasing gameplay, offering reviews, or simply sharing gaming news. Example: Markiplier is known for his energetic gameplays, often combining humor and genuine reactions.

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16. DIY and Crafts

Offer viewers creative inspiration by showcasing DIY projects, crafts, or even home improvement tasks. Example: 5-Minute Crafts provides quick DIY solutions, often using everyday items.

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17. Fitness and Health

From workout routines to nutrition advice, these videos can inspire and guide viewers towards a healthier lifestyle. Example: Blogilates combines fitness with fun, offering themed workouts and health tips.

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18. Fashion and Beauty

Delve into the world of fashion, makeup, and beauty routines. This can range from hauls to tutorials or reviews. Example: Zoella often showcases fashion hauls, makeup routines, and offers beauty advice.

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19. Technology and Gadget Reviews

Stay on top of tech trends by reviewing the latest gadgets, software, or tech news. Example: Linus Tech Tips offers deep dives into tech products, combining expertise with entertainment.

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20. Documentary and Investigative Content

Venture deeper into topics, providing viewers with in-depth research and storytelling. Example: Shane Dawson has created several investigative series, exploring topics from conspiracy theories to personal profiles.

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21. Life Hacks and Tips

These videos offer shortcuts or innovative solutions to everyday problems, making life a tad easier. Example: Troom Troom provides a myriad of quirky and fun life hacks, suitable for all ages.

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22. ASMR and Relaxation Videos

Create videos that soothe the senses. Whether it's soft spoken words, tapping sounds, or visually relaxing content, ASMR videos can offer relaxation and even induce sleep. Example: Gibi ASMR provides a variety of ASMR triggers, ensuring a sensory experience for viewers.

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23. Cooking and Recipe Tutorials

Share your culinary adventures, from intricate recipes to cooking tips and tricks. Example: Binging with Babish re-creates iconic dishes from films and TV shows, combining culinary expertise with pop culture.

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24. Art and Design

Showcase your artistry, be it in drawing, painting, or design. This can range from time-lapse videos of your process to tutorials. Example: Jazza takes viewers on an artistic journey, from challenges to tutorials, all in a fun and engaging manner.

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25. Book, Movie, and Music Discussions

Dive into reviews or discussions on various forms of media. Analysing plots, themes, or simply fangirling/fanboying are all fair game. Example: Nerdwriter1 offers profound insights into movies, music, and other art forms, breaking down their complexities.

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26. Language Learning and Cultural Exploration

Be it teaching a language or exploring diverse cultures, these videos can be both educational and intriguing. Example: Polyglot Pablo dives deep into various languages, offering lessons peppered with cultural nuances.

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27. Science and Education

Make learning fun by delving into scientific concepts, facts, or new discoveries. Example: Vsauce tackles intriguing scientific and philosophical questions, presenting them in an engaging manner.

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28. Personal Finance and Investing

Guiding viewers on money management, investments, or simply sharing financial tips can be both valuable and engaging. Example: Graham Stephan breaks down complex financial concepts into bite-sized, relatable content.

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29. Social Issues and Activism

Use your platform to discuss pressing social issues, championing causes, or simply raising awareness. Example: Franchesca "Chescaleigh" Ramsey delves into social issues, fostering dialogue and understanding.

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30. Sports and Athletics

From match reviews to tips on improving athletic skills, the world of sports offers a plethora of content opportunities. Example: Dude Perfect combines sports with entertainment, creating epic trick shots and challenges.

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31. Reaction Videos

Reacting to viral videos, music videos, or trailers in real-time offers genuine entertainment. Example: The Fine Bros (REACT channel) hosts various age groups to react to cultural and viral phenomena.

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32. Unpopular Opinion Vlogs

Voicing dissenting opinions can foster meaningful discussions, provided they're backed up with reasoning. Example: The Critical Drinker provides an alternate take on popular movies and series.

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33. Commentary and Analysis

Offer deep dives into events, films, or news, sharing personal insights. Example: ContraPoints breaks down socio-political issues with depth, humor, and unique visuals.

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34. Talk Shows

Simulate a talk show format, complete with guest interviews and comedic segments. Example: The Ellen Show is a blend of interviews, performances, and comedic segments.

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35. Podcast-Style Videos

Engage in free-flowing conversations, offering viewers an auditory and visual experience. Example: H3 Podcast showcases lengthy discussions on a myriad of topics, often featuring guests.

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36. Educational Pop Culture Videos

Use pop culture references to explain academic subjects. Example: The Take delves into movie and TV show analysis, exploring themes, characters, and cultural implications.

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37. Mystery Box Unboxings

The anticipation of what's inside is a great hook for viewers. Example: Safiya Nygaard often dives into mystery beauty boxes or fashion grab bags, adding her own humorous take.

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38. Comment Reading Videos

Engage directly with your community by responding to their comments. Example: Jacksepticeye often dedicates videos to interact with fans, reading and reacting to their comments.

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39. Parody Music Videos

Turn popular songs into humorous renditions, adding a personal spin. Example: Bart Baker creates parody versions of hit songs, often with exaggerated humor.

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40. Interactive Videos

Engage viewers by making them part of the content creation process. Example: BuzzFeed's Worth It often seeks audience opinion on what to review next or where to travel.

Final Thoughts

In the dynamic world of YouTube, content diversity is key. Exploring different formats ensures your channel remains fresh, engaging, and appealing to a broad audience. While these ideas serve as a springboard, always remember to infuse your unique touch, making every video a reflection of your authentic self. Happy filming!