YouTube

SEO, upload optimization, and content strategy for YouTube channels.

Upload Optimization

Titles

• Front-load keywords for search visibility
• Keep under 60 characters to avoid truncation
• Use numbers and specific outcomes when possible

Descriptions

• First 2 lines appear in search results — make them count
• Include timestamps for key sections
• Add relevant links and resources
• Use natural keyword variations throughout

Tags

• Start with exact-match target keywords
• Include semantic variations and related terms
• Add common misspellings of key terms
• Limit to 10-15 highly relevant tags

Thumbnail Best Practices

• High contrast and bold colors
• Readable text at small sizes (mobile)
• Expressive faces when featuring people
• Consistent branding elements across videos

Algorithm Signals

Click-through rate (CTR) and average view duration are the two most important metrics. The algorithm serves content that viewers click on AND watch.