YouTube Shorts Ideas
Generator

Viral Shorts typically share these traits: Strong hook in the first 1-3 seconds, high watch time (viewers watching till the end), engagement triggers (comments, shares), emotional response (funny, shocking, satisfying), and relevance to trending topics. The algorithm rewards retention over everything else.

For growth, 1-3 Shorts per day is ideal. Consistency matters more than volume. The algorithm tests each Short independently, so more posts = more lottery tickets. However, quality shouldn't suffer. Start with 1 per day and scale up as you develop a workflow.

Shorts can be up to 60 seconds, but optimal length varies. For maximum retention: 15-30 seconds for simple tips, 30-45 seconds for tutorials, 45-60 seconds for stories. Shorter isn't always better - what matters is that the length matches the content. No padding, no unnecessary length.

Hashtags have minimal impact on Shorts discovery compared to long-form videos. The algorithm primarily uses video content, engagement, and viewer behavior. Use 2-3 relevant hashtags but don't stress about them. Your hook and content quality matter far more than hashtags.

Yes, but remove the TikTok watermark. YouTube may suppress videos with other platform watermarks. Use a tool to remove watermarks or download the original. Content-wise, what works on TikTok often works on Shorts, but YouTube's audience skews slightly older and prefers educational content.

Focus on these factors: 1) Hook viewers in the first second, 2) Keep them watching till the end (high retention), 3) Encourage engagement (ask questions, use CTAs), 4) Post consistently, 5) Jump on trends early, 6) Study your analytics to see what works. Views compound as you learn what your audience responds to.

YouTube's Shorts camera includes a licensed music library you can use freely. Using music outside this library may result in Content ID claims. While your Short might still be viewable, you may lose monetization on that video. Trending sounds from the library often boost discoverability.

Yes, but strategically. Shorts subscribers may not watch your long-form content unless you create a bridge. Use Shorts to tease longer videos, build brand recognition, and capture interest. Some successful creators use separate channels for Shorts to keep audiences segmented.

Unlike long-form videos, posting time matters less for Shorts. The algorithm tests Shorts over days/weeks, not hours. That said, posting when your audience is active can give an early boost. Check YouTube Studio analytics for your audience's online times. Consistency matters more than timing.

There's no magic number. Some creators hit viral on their first Short, others post hundreds before one takes off. Treat each Short as an experiment. Analyze what works, double down on winning formats, and keep improving. Most successful Shorts creators say it took 50-100+ posts before understanding what works for them.

Face-to-camera content often performs better because it creates personal connection and trust. However, faceless Shorts can also go viral - think satisfying videos, tutorials with screen recordings, or story-driven content. Test both and see what works for your niche and comfort level.

Shorts monetization pays roughly $0.01-0.05 per 1000 views - much less than long-form. A Short with 1 million views might earn $10-50. However, the real value is in audience building, which leads to sponsorships, products, and driving traffic to higher-paying long-form content.