From Blank Page to Viral Video: The Beginner’s Guide to Storyboarding & Scriptwriting
So, you want to start using video for your business, but you’re stuck on the first step. Maybe you have a few keywords jotted down, a rough idea of what you want to say, or just know that video is the way forward—but how do you actually begin?
The good news? You don’t need to be a filmmaker to create effective videos. You just need a plan—and that’s where scriptwriting and storyboarding come in. These two steps will help you map out your message, stay organized, and ensure a smooth filming process. Let’s break it down.
Turning Keywords into a Simple Script
If you only have keywords to start with, don’t worry! That’s a great place to begin. You can build a script by using a simple framework:
Basic Video Script Structure for Beginners
- Introduction (Hook Your Audience) Grab attention in the first 5–10 seconds.
- Example: “Struggling with social media videos? You’re not alone. Let’s break it down!”
- The Problem (Why This Video Matters) Briefly mention the challenge your audience faces.
- Example: “Most business owners know they need videos, but they don’t know where to start.”
- The Solution (Your Key Message) Share your insights, tips, or how your product/service can help.
- Example: “Storyboarding makes your videos 10x easier. Here’s how to do it in 3 steps.”
- Call to Action (What Should Viewers Do Next?) Tell them the next step: “Follow for more tips,” “Download our free guide,” or “Visit our website.”
Pro Tip: Keep your script conversational. Pretend you’re explaining your idea to a friend. No need for big words or formal language—just be clear and engaging.
Storyboarding – The Beginner’s Shortcut
A storyboard is like a comic strip for your video. It’s a visual plan that helps you figure out:
- What shots do you need
- What’s happening in each scene
- What text or graphics to add
But what if you can’t draw? Don’t worry! Storyboarding doesn’t have to be fancy. Here’s how to do it the easy way:
Beginner-Friendly Storyboarding Options
- Option 1: Index Cards or Sticky Notes – Write one key idea per card and arrange them in order.
- Example: Card 1 – Introduce the topic | Card 2 – Show the problem | Card 3 – Explain the solution
- Option 2: Use a Free Canva TemplateCanva with drag-and-drop storyboards to add simple images or text boxes.
- Option 3: Sketch Stick Figures (Yes, really!) Just draw rough boxes and arrows to show the flow.
- Example: A stick figure holding a product, then a close-up of the product, then text on screen.
- Option 4: Google Slides or PowerPoint – Make a slide for each scene with text explaining what’s happening.
Pro Tip: If you’re still stuck, just write a list of what needs to be shown in each scene instead of drawing.
Example:
- Scene 1: “Me talking to the camera about video marketing.”
- Scene 2: “Show a behind-the-scenes clip of me filming.”
- Scene 3: “Add text that says ‘Start with a storyboard’.”
You don’t need artistic skills—just a clear plan.
Final Thoughts: Just Start!
Most beginners overthink video marketing. But the secret? Just start.
- Turn keywords into a simple script
- Use sticky notes, sketches, or templates to plan your shots
- Focus on clarity, not perfection
And if you’re still feeling stuck, I’ve got something for you!
Join our waitlist for an exclusive webinar, during which we’ll explore scriptwriting, storyboarding, and other digital marketing essentials in greater depth.
Visit our YouTube page for video clips where Debbie explores additional digital marketing topics and video marketing advice. Your audience is waiting to see your brand in action—let’s make it happen! 🎥
What’s stopping you from creating your first video? Leave a comment below—I’d love to help!
