Creating video content can feel like a big lift, especially when balancing the other responsibilities of developing an online course. AI tools can help streamline the process by turning your ideas into structured, engaging scripts for course/weekly overviews, explainers, or short teaching segments.
This guide provides AI prompt templates and examples you can use to generate effective video scripts that sound natural, stay concise, and connect with your students.
Characteristics of Strong Video Scripts
Effective instructional scripts share common traits. They should be:
- Purpose-Driven: A good script always connects back to a learning goal. What should students understand, feel, or do after watching?
- Engaging: Open with relevance. A question, story, or real-world example draws students in.
- Concise: Aim for short, focused segments (2–3 minutes).
- Authentic: Let your own voice shine through. Students connect more with instructors who sound human, not scripted.
- Structured: Every script benefits from a clear flow: introduction → key ideas → wrap-up or call to action.
Writing a Video Script with AI
When prompting AI for scriptwriting, provide context, tone, and structure.
Use the steps below as a checklist when drafting your prompt.
Before prompting, outline the essentials:
- Who is speaking? (Instructor, narrator, or character)
- Who is the audience? (Undergraduates, professionals, general learners)
- What type of video? (Overview, explainer, tutorial, reflection)
- Desired length (e.g., 2 minutes, 500 words)
Example: “A 2-minute concept video narrated by an instructor for Masters of Business students.”
A strong opening makes learning feel relevant. Choose one:
- Real-world example (a brief case study)
- Personal anecdote (a story from your own experience)
- Hypothetical scenario (“Imagine you’re…”)
Tip: One or two sentences is enough. The AI will build on it.
List 3–5 main ideas students should remember, and briefly explain why each matters.
Example:
- Explain how clear visuals improve data-driven decisions.
- Show how poor charts can mislead analysis.
- Connect visualization skills to real workplace communication.
Match the tone to your course and teaching style:
- Warm and welcoming
- Energetic and engaging
- Clear and educational
- Casual and conversational
- Inspirational and reflective
Example: “The tone should be [tone]. Make it concise, engaging, and conversational.”
Use the following template and fill in your personal details and touches:
Write a [length] video script for [audience] introducing [topic]. Start with a [hook type]. Highlight [3–5 key ideas]. The tone should be [tone]. Keep it clear, engaging, and easy to follow.
Example: “Write a 2-minute explainer video for business students on data visualization. Start with a real-world example of how poor chart design can mislead decision-makers. Highlight clarity, design, and storytelling as key principles. Use an educational but friendly tone.”
Conclusion
AI-assisted scripting amplifies your expertise. It doesn’t replace it. When used thoughtfully, these tools save time while helping you create authentic, engaging video content that connects with students. Try the templates above to get started, then refine outputs until they sound like your voice and reflect your instructional goals
