How to Make an Explainer Video: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Last Updated on December 2, 2025 by Himanshu Rawat

Explainer videos are one of the easiest ways to show people what your product or service does. Instead of making someone read a long paragraph, a short video can explain everything in a clear and simple way. That’s why businesses use explainer videos on their website, social media, ads, and even emails.

These videos work because people love quick, easy-to-understand content. A good explainer video tells a short story, shows the problem, gives the solution, and makes viewers feel confident about what you’re offering.

In this blog, you’ll learn what explainer videos are, why they are so useful, the different types you can make, and a step-by-step guide to create one on your own — even if you’re a beginner.

What Is an Explainer Video?

An explainer video is a short video that helps people understand something quickly. It could explain what your product does, how your app works, or why your service is useful. The goal is to make things simple and easy to follow.

These videos are usually short — around 30 to 90 seconds. They use clear visuals, simple language, and a straight-to-the-point message. That’s why they are easy to watch and easy to understand.

You’ll often see explainer videos on websites, landing pages, YouTube, and social media. They grab attention fast and help people “get” what you’re offering without confusion.

In simple words, an explainer video tells people:
“Here’s the problem. Here’s the solution. And here’s why it matters.”

Why Are Explainer Videos So Beneficial?

Explainer videos are helpful because they make information simple. People don’t always want to read long text, but they will watch a short video. That’s why these videos work so well for businesses.

Here are a few reasons why explainer videos are so useful:

1. They are easy to understand.
   A short video can explain your product or service in a clear and simple way.
2. They keep people interested.
   Videos are more engaging than text, so viewers stay longer and pay more attention.
3. They can increase sales.
   When people understand your product better, they are more likely to buy it.
4. They build trust.
   A clean, clear video makes your brand look more professional and reliable.
5. They are great for social media.
   Platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok love short videos — they get more reach.
6. They help explain complex things.
   If your product is hard to describe, a video can break it down in a simple way.

In short:
Explainer videos help people understand you faster, stay interested, and trust your brand more.

What Makes a Good Explainer Video?

A good explainer video is short, simple, and easy to understand. It should help people know what your product or service does — fast.

Here’s what makes a video good:

1. Clear message
   Keep your main point simple. Don’t try to explain too much at once.
2. Catch attention fast
   The first few seconds are important. Make people want to keep watching.
3. Simple words
   Use short sentences. Explain how your product helps people.
4. Easy-to-see visuals
   Use pictures, animations, or clips that match your words. Don’t make it too crowded.
5. Smooth speed
   Make sure the video isn’t too fast or too slow.
6. Tell people what to do next
   End with a call-to-action. For example: “Buy now,” “Sign up,” or “Learn more.”

A good explainer video is easy to watch, easy to understand, and shows people why your product matters.

Types of Explainer Videos

There are different types of explainer videos. You can pick the one that fits your product and audience best.

1. 2D Animated Videos
   Simple animations with characters, icons, or shapes. They are fun and easy to understand.
2. 3D Animated Videos
   Animations that look more real. Good for showing products or complicated ideas.
3. Whiteboard Videos
   Looks like someone is drawing on a whiteboard. Great for teaching or step-by-step explanations.
4. Live-Action Videos
   Real people showing your product or service. Works well for demos or testimonials.
5. Screencast Videos
   Record your computer screen. Perfect for apps, websites, or software tutorials.
6. Text-Based Videos (Kinetic Typography)
   Uses moving text to explain ideas. Works well for short and catchy videos.
7. AI-Generated Videos
   You can use tools like Vidoo, Canva, or InVideo to make videos quickly with AI.

Each type has its own style. Choose the one that best matches your message and audience.

Note: If you want to explore more tools for creating Shopify and e-commerce videos, check out 8 Best Video Apps for Shopify Stores.

How to Make an Explainer Video (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Define Your Goal

Before making a video, you need to know why you are making it. Ask yourself:

• Who is going to watch this video?
• What problem do they have?
• What do I want them to learn or do after watching?

Your goal will help you decide what to show in the video. If your goal is not clear, your video might confuse people.

A clear goal makes it easier to write the script, choose visuals, and keep your video short and simple.

Step 2: Write a Simple Script

The script is the words your video will say. It is very important because it tells the story.

Keep it short and simple. Most explainer videos are 30–90 seconds. Focus on:

1. The Problem – Show what problem your audience has.
2. The Solution – Explain how your product or service solves it.
3. How It Works – Show the main steps in an easy way.
4. The Benefits – Tell why it is useful for them.
5. Call-to-Action – Tell them what to do next, like “Buy now” or “Sign up.”

Use short sentences and simple words. Pretend you are talking to a friend.

A clear script makes your video easy to understand and keeps people watching.

Step 3: Create a Storyboard

A storyboard is like a plan for your video. It shows what will happen in each part.

Draw simple boxes for each scene. Write what will be shown and what will be said. You don’t need to be an artist — simple sketches or notes are enough.

Why make a storyboard?

• It helps you see the video before you make it.
• You can plan the visuals and words together.
• It saves time when you start making the video.

A storyboard keeps your video organized and makes it easier to follow.

Step 4: Choose the Right Explainer Video Style

There are different types of explainer videos. Choose one that fits your product and audience.

1. 2D Animation – Simple cartoons or shapes. Fun and easy to watch.
2. 3D Animation – Looks more real. Good for showing products or tricky ideas.
3. Whiteboard – Looks like someone is drawing on a whiteboard. Great for teaching step by step.
4. Live-Action – Real people showing your product. Works well for demos or reviews.
5. Screencast – Record your computer screen. Perfect for apps or websites.
6. Text-Based – Moving text explains your idea. Good for short, catchy videos.
7. AI-Generated – Use tools like Vidoo, Canva, or InVideo to make videos fast with AI help.

Pick a style that is simple and easy for people to understand.

Step 5: Record Your Voiceover

The voiceover is what people hear in your video. It helps explain your product or service clearly.

Here’s how to do it:

• Speak clearly – Use a normal, friendly tone.
• Go slow – Don’t rush. Make it easy to understand.
• Keep it natural – Pretend you are talking to a friend.
• Use a good microphone – If you can, use a headset or a simple mic for clear sound.
• Try AI voiceovers – Tools like Vidoo or Canva can create a voice for you if you don’t want to record yourself.

A clear and friendly voice makes your video easier to watch and understand.

Step 6: Create Visuals for Your Video

Visuals are what people see in your video. They help explain your product or service.

Here’s how to make them:

• Use simple pictures or icons – Keep it clean and easy to understand.
• Add animations or movements – Make it more fun and interesting.
• Show your product or app – Record screens or real product clips if needed.
• Use your brand colors – This makes your video look professional and matches your brand.
• Don’t overcrowd – Too many things on screen can confuse people.

Good visuals help people understand your message faster and make your video more enjoyable to watch.

Step 7: Edit and Put Your Video Together

Now it’s time to put your video together. This means adding your visuals, voice, and music.

Here’s how I usually do it:

• Match voice and pictures – Make sure what people hear matches what they see.
• Add some music – Soft background music makes it more fun. Just don’t make it too loud.
• Move between scenes smoothly – Make it flow nicely from one part to the next.
• Check the speed – Don’t go too fast or too slow. Keep it easy to watch.
• Cut the extra stuff – Remove anything that isn’t needed. Keep it short and clear.

Editing well makes your video feel professional and easy for people to follow.

Step 8: Add a Strong Call-to-Action

A call-to-action, or CTA, tells people what to do after watching your video. It’s very important.

Here’s how to do it:

• Be clear – Say exactly what you want them to do.
• Keep it short – One sentence is enough.
• Use action words – Words like “Buy now,” “Sign up,” or “Learn more” work best.
• Place it at the end – This is where people are ready to act.

A good CTA helps turn viewers into customers or leads.

Step 9: Export, Optimize & Publish

Once your video is ready, it’s time to save and share it.

Here’s how:

• Export the video – Save it in a format like MP4 so it works everywhere.
• Add subtitles – Helps people understand even without sound.
• Make a thumbnail – A small image that attracts people to click your video.
• Check the file size – Make sure it’s not too big to upload.
• Publish it – Share on your website, social media, YouTube, or anywhere your audience is.

Doing these steps makes sure your video looks good and reaches more people.

Where to Share Explainer Videos

Once your video is ready, you need to share it where people can see it.

Here are some good places:

• Your website – Put it on your homepage or product pages.
• YouTube – Great for search and long-term views.
• Instagram – Use Reels or posts to reach followers.
• TikTok – Short videos work really well here.
• Facebook – Share on your page or in groups.
• LinkedIn – Good for business-related videos.
• Email – Add it to newsletters or campaigns.
• Ads – Use it in Google, Facebook, or TikTok ads.
• App stores – If you have an app, show it in your listing.
• Sales pages – Videos help convince people to buy.

Sharing your video in the right places helps more people see it and understand your product.

Best Tools to Make an Explainer Video

You don’t need to be a pro to make a good explainer video. There are many tools that make it easy.

Here are some popular ones:

• Vidoo – Helps make e-commerce and Shopify videos quickly.

• Canva – Easy drag-and-drop video maker with templates.

• InVideo – Simple tool for creating animated or live-action videos.

• CapCut – Great for editing short, social media videos.

• Animaker – Good for fun animations and whiteboard videos.
• Adobe Premiere Pro – Professional editing software if you want more control.

Pick a tool that is easy for you and fits the type of video you want to make.

Tips to Make Your Explainer Video Stand Out

Here are a few easy tips to make your video better and more interesting:

• Grab attention quickly – Make the first few seconds exciting so people want to watch more.
• Keep it short – Try to make it 30–90 seconds. People lose interest if it’s too long.
• Show the benefits – Tell people how your product or service can help them.
• Use simple visuals – Keep pictures and animations clear and easy to understand.
• Stick to your brand colors – This makes your video look like it belongs to you.
• Use clear sound – Make sure your voice is easy to hear and add soft background music.

Follow these tips and your video will be easy to watch, fun, and helpful for viewers.

Final Thoughts

Explainer videos are a really simple way to show people what your product or service does. They are short, clear, and easy to understand.

A good explainer video:

• Has a clear message – people should get it quickly.
• Grabs attention fast – the first few seconds matter a lot.
• Shows the benefits – tell viewers how it can help them.
• Uses simple visuals and sound – make it easy to watch and hear.
• Tells people what to do next – like “Buy now” or “Sign up.”

You don’t need to be an expert to make one. If you plan well and follow the steps, anyone can create a video that works.

Keep it simple, clear, and friendly — and your viewers will understand your product easily.