✳ PLAYBOOK · TEACH · YOUTUBE SHORTS
Tutorial short on YouTube Shorts
Teach one thing in a single short - step-by-step, with captions naming every action.
What to produce
- 60s tutorial - 9:16, 60s
- Step-by-step carousel - 1:1
Recommended inputs
- Hands + props
- Screen recording
- Whiteboard
Platform-specific guidance
- Hook
- First 3 seconds decide Shorts retention - open on the strongest beat.
- Aspect
- 9:16
- Duration
- 60s
- Captions
- Burned-in recommended
- Reframe 16:9 to 9:16
- Yes
- Safe-zone overlay
- Apply before upload
- Caption guidance
- Burned-in captions; Shorts allow heavier caption styling.
Workflow
- Pick one thing to teach: If it needs more than 5 steps, split.
- Demonstrate each step: Show, don't just narrate.
- Add step captions: Number each step on screen. (Burn-in)
- Export pack: Vertical short + 1:1 carousel. (Content Pack)
- Reframe for YouTube Shorts: 16:9 to 9:16 reframe; subject tracking. (Reframe)
- Apply platform safe-zone overlay: Use the YouTube Shorts safe-zone overlay so subjects stay visible. (Safe-zone)
Pitfalls to avoid
- Tutorial that needs 5 minutes of context
- Step numbers invisible
Tools and presets
Frequently asked
How do I make a tutorial short for YouTube Shorts?
Pick one thing to teach; Demonstrate each step; Add step captions; Export pack.
What aspect ratio should I use on YouTube Shorts?
Use 9:16 (YouTube Shorts's safe native ratio).
Do I need burned-in captions on YouTube Shorts?
Yes - YouTube Shorts feeds are predominantly muted, so burned-in captions are essential.
Which export preset should I pick?
YouTube Shorts's SAFE_DEFAULT preset is documented at /tools/export/youtube-shorts/short.
Sources
YouTube Help - Creator playbooks (verified 2026-09-18) - HubSpot content types overview (verified 2026-09-18)