How to make a tutorial video in 3 steps

Making video tutorials is an effective way to share knowledge, be it training employees, teaching students, or informing your audience as a content creator. These videos simplify complex information, making it easy for viewers to understand and apply what they’ve learned.

In this article, we’ll explain how to make a tutorial video in three simple steps. You’ll learn about key elements, planning tips, filming and editing techniques, and how to share your videos. But first, let’s understand what a tutorial video is.

 

What is a tutorial video and why use one?

A tutorial video is a type of instructional content designed to teach viewers how to complete a specific task or understand a particular concept. Think of it as a step-by-step guide that visually walks you through a process, making the learning process easier and more dynamic. With tutorial videos, you can do anything from showing how to bake a cake to explaining a software feature to creating mobile app explainer videos.

But why should you use tutorial videos? 

 

Easy to follow

One of the best things about tutorial videos is how they break down complex tasks into simple, manageable steps. Imagine trying to follow a complicated recipe with just an endless list of instructions. If only there was a video that actually showed the process step by step. Much easier, right? Visual aids, combined with clear, concise instructions, eliminate any confusion and allow you to replicate the steps accurately.

 

Engaging

Combining visuals and audio keeps viewers hooked. Think about the last time you tried to follow text-based instructions for assembling furniture. Needless to say, it can be frustrating and hard to follow. Video tutorials, on the other hand, capture your attention and maintain your interest. This does wonders for the learning process, reinforcing the material and improving retention.

 

Builds trust

Providing valuable content gives you authority in your field. This builds trust with your audience, making them more likely to return for more information and recommend your content to others. Tutorial videos demonstrate your knowledge and willingness to share your insights, which can boost your reputation. If you’re creating high-quality software tutorials, for example, viewers will see you as a go-to resource for learning about that software.

 

Provides visual demonstration

For tasks that are difficult to explain with words alone, a visual demonstration can make all the difference. Seeing a task performed step by step can provide clarity and insight that text-based instructions simply cannot match. Learning how to make AI video content can further simplify this process by using AI visuals to clearly illustrate complex ideas. For example, learning how to use a new piece of software can be much easier when watching someone else navigate the features and functions.

 

Cost-effective

Another advantage of creating tutorial videos is that they’re cost-effective, especially when using tools like Renderforest’s training video maker. You can then show your video to countless individuals without any additional cost. This scalability makes tutorial videos a great investment, particularly for businesses looking to train large numbers of employees or reach a broad audience. The initial cost of producing a video can be offset by the savings in time and resources compared to other training methods.

 

Efficient learning

Tutorial videos allow viewers to learn at their own pace. They can pause, rewind, and rewatch sections as needed. This way, they’d understand each piece of information before moving on to the next. Since viewers can focus on the areas where they need the most help without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, the learning process becomes all the more efficient. 

 

Measurable impact

With the right tools, you can track how viewers interact with your videos. Metrics like watch time, engagement, and completion rates can provide valuable insights into how effective your content is, helping you make data-driven decisions to improve future videos. This will help you refine your approach and make sure that your tutorial videos are as helpful as possible.

 

 

How to create video tutorials in 3 steps

Creating tutorial video content might seem like a difficult task, but with the right tools and guidance, you can produce professional-quality videos in minutes. To save you hours of research, let’s walk you through the process using the Educational Video Toolkit template as an example.

 

Step 1: Select scenes

 

The first step in creating your tutorial video involves choosing the scenes that will best suit your needs. Here’s how:

 

Browse scenes

Start by exploring the variety of animated scenes available in the template. Each scene offers a unique style and message, giving you plenty of options to match your brand voice.

 

Pick your scenes

Select the scenes that best fit your tutorial’s narrative. Think about the flow of your video and how each scene can help convey your message. Arrange them in the order that tells your story most effectively.

 

Preview and adjust

Preview each selected scene to ensure it aligns with your overall message. You have the flexibility to reorder scenes or make adjustments as needed.

 

Step 2: Customize

 

Once you’ve chosen your scenes, it’s time to make them truly yours. Customization is key to ensuring your video reflects your unique style and message. Here’s what you can do:

 

Edit text and images

Modify the text in each scene to match your script. Add images, icons, or logos to enhance your message and brand your video.

 

Change colors and fonts

Adjust the color scheme to match your brand’s colors. Select fonts that align with your brand’s voice and style, making your video look cohesive and professional.

 

Add voiceover and music

Record a voiceover to guide your viewers through the tutorial, or choose from pre-recorded options. Select background music that complements your video’s tone and keeps viewers engaged.

 

Apply transitions and effects

Enhance your video with smooth transitions and effects. This helps in creating a polished, professional look that keeps your audience’s attention.

 

Step 3: Export and share

 

Once everything looks good, go over the video to catch any errors and make final touches. Choose the appropriate resolution and format for your needs, and then download the video. You can also share your tutorial video by uploading it to platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, and social media sites. Embed it on your website to increase engagement, include it in email campaigns and newsletters, and use social media channels to distribute your video. The choice is yours. 

 

How to make a video tutorial with AI

You can create a video with our AI animation generator or AI video generator, as well. Here’s how:

 

Step 1: Enter your idea or script

 

From the Renderforest homepage, head over to “Explore AI” on the toolbar up top and select “AI Video Generator.” From there, you’ll want to hit the “Generate AI Video” button. Start by entering a script or a brief description of your idea for the tutorial video. Don’t forget to check your input for typos before clicking on “Next.” 

 

Step 2: Customize and generate

 

This is where you choose the speaker and the visual style to fit your preferences. Once you’re happy with the customizations, click the “Do Magic” button. The AI will generate your video using the provided script, bringing your content to life in just a few moments.

 

Step 4: Edit

 

After generating the video, you can refine it using the online AI video editor. This is where you upload your visuals, modify the text, adjust the color scheme, change background music or voiceovers if needed, and add a watermark to protect your content. Finally, preview your video to make any final adjustments. You can now export and share the final result.

 

The most common types of tutorial videos 

The great thing about tutorial videos is that they can cover virtually any topic imaginable. From product demonstrations to software tutorials, these videos can help you both teach and learn. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common types of tutorial videos.

 

Microvideos

What are microvideos? Microvideos are brief instructional videos that focus on teaching a specific and narrow topic without going into too much depth. These videos are typically less than one minute long.

 

Why use microvideos? Microvideos are perfect for delivering targeted messages without overwhelming the viewer with too much information. By focusing on one particular aspect, microvideos help viewers learn a new skill or learn something new in seconds. 

 

When to use microvideos? Microvideos are ideal for quick tips and tricks, introducing new features, or providing short tutorials. You can also use them in a series to break down more complex topics into manageable segments, boosting audience engagement and making the content easier to consume.

 

How-to/tutorial videos

What are tutorial videos? Tutorial videos, also known as “how-to” videos, are typically between two and ten minutes long. They give step-by-step instructions to help viewers understand and complete a process or task. These videos often include follow-along guidance and can sometimes feature interactive elements such as quizzes to keep viewers engaged.

 

Why use tutorial videos? Tutorial videos are great for teaching more complex processes than microvideos can cover. They provide detailed instructions and are useful for both internal training and customer education. The level of polish for these videos can vary based on the audience—more professional for external viewers and possibly more casual for internal use.

 

When to use tutorial videos? Tutorial videos are versatile and can be used to teach almost anything. They are particularly effective when you need to demonstrate a process or share valuable information on how to improve a skill. Examples include software tutorials, DIY projects, and educational lessons.

 

Training videos

What are training videos? Training videos are specialized instructional videos aimed at improving job-specific skills and covering work-related topics such as compliance, health and safety, and employee onboarding. These videos often feature real-life scenarios and may include footage of actual people to create relatable examples.

 

Why use training videos? A training video is generally meant to improve employee skills and promote a positive workplace culture. It helps boost employee knowledge and performance while guaranteeing compliance with company policies and regulations. Incorporating visual aids like animations and graphics can make the content more engaging and informative.

 

When to use training videos? Training videos are best used for employee development, onboarding new hires, and ensuring compliance with workplace standards. They are particularly effective in addressing interpersonal topics and demonstrating proper procedures and protocols.

 

Screencast videos

What are screencast videos? Screencast videos are recordings of your computer screen, often accompanied by narration. They demonstrate software usage, online tools, and website navigation, making them ideal for technical tutorials.

 

Why use screencast videos? Screencast videos show viewers exactly what to do on their computers. They provide clear visual instructions and make it easier for viewers to follow along the steps involved in using a particular software or online tool.

 

When to use screencast videos? Screencast videos are a go-to choice for software tutorials, online course modules, and technical support videos. You can also use them in webinars and online presentations where detailed visual instructions play a major role.

 

Explainer videos

What are explainer videos? Explainer videos are short videos that explain a concept, product, or service in a simple and engaging way. They often use animations, graphics, and clear narration to break down complex information.

 

Why use explainer videos? An explainer video comes in handy for introducing new products or services, explaining complex concepts, and educating your audience. It helps simplify information and make it more digestible—perfect for marketing and educational purposes.

 

When to use explainer videos? Explainer videos are ideal for marketing campaigns, product launches, and educational content. You can also use them to onboard new customers or clients and provide a quick overview of your offerings.

 

Best tutorial video software 

Creating tutorial videos is a breeze when you have the right tools. Here are some of the best software options to help you put together yours:

 

Renderforest

 

Renderforest is an all-in-one online platform that makes video creation easy and fun. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, Renderforest is one of the best software for making high-quality tutorial videos.

 

Key features

• Quickly create professional-looking videos with a wide range of templates designed for tutorials
• Add your own text, images, logos, and animations to personalize your videos
• Choose from a library of background music or record your own voiceovers
• Use AI to generate natural-sounding voiceovers if you don’t want to record yourself
• Various branding tools like the logo animation maker

 

Why use Renderforest?

It’s simple, user-friendly, and perfect for making high-quality videos without any hassle.

 

Camtasia

 

Camtasia by TechSmith is a good choice for anyone looking to create detailed and polished tutorial content. It’s known for its powerful screen recording and video editing capabilities.

 

Key features

• Record your screen in high definition, perfect for software tutorials
• Drag-and-drop editing, transitions, and effects make video editing a snap
• Add quizzes and clickable links to make your videos interactive
• Access a library of assets like music, icons, and motion graphics

 

Why use Camtasia?

It’s an all-stop solution for screen recording and video editing, making it easy to create professional tutorial videos.

 

Adobe Captivate

 

Adobe Captivate is great for creating interactive tutorials, especially for eLearning. This video editing tool is part of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite, so it integrates well with other Adobe products.

 

Key features

• Your videos will look great on any device
• Advanced screen recording features like panning and zooming
• Add quizzes, simulations, and branching scenarios to engage your audience
• Works seamlessly with other Adobe products and Learning Management Systems (LMS)

 

Why use Adobe Captivate?

It’s a solid platform for making interactive and engaging eLearning videos. Plus, the company has a good reputation. 

 

OBS Studio

 

OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software) is a free and open-source tool that’s great for video recording and live streaming.

 

Key features

• Configure multiple scenes, transitions, and sources
• Stream live to platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook
• Expand functionality with community-made plugins
• Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux

 

Why use OBS Studio?

It’s powerful, versatile, and free, making it a viable choice for anyone looking to create tutorial videos. 

 

ScreenFlow

 

ScreenFlow by Telestream is a powerful screen recording and video editing software platform for MacOS users. It is known for its ease of use and high-quality output.

 

Key features

• Multi-track editing, transitions, animations, and video effects
• Create and apply reusable templates and styles
• Add closed captions to enhance accessibility
• Various export settings for different platforms and devices

 

Why use ScreenFlow?

It’s user-friendly, with various editing tools and a built-in stock media library—catering to professionals and beginners alike.

 

Tips for how to make a good tutorial video

Creating an effective tutorial video requires a blend of clear communication, engaging visuals, and practical information. Here are some essential tips to help you craft the best tutorial video possible:

 

 

Plan your content

• Outline your script. Start by planning what you want to cover in your tutorial. Jot down the main points and organize them logically. This way, you won’t miss any critical steps, and your tutorial will flow smoothly.
• Write a script. With your outline ready, write a detailed script. This will guide you during recording, helping you stay on track and cover all necessary information. Remember to use clear and concise language.
• Rehearse. Practice delivering your script a few times before you start recording. This helps you get comfortable with the material and can reduce the number of takes needed. 

 

Use quality equipment

• Camera and microphone. Good visuals and clear sound are crucial. You don’t need professional gear; a modern smartphone with proper lighting and sound settings can do the trick. Just make sure the camera and microphone quality are decent.
• Lighting. Make sure your recording space is well-lit. Natural light is great, but if you’re indoors, use softbox lights or ring lights to eliminate shadows and highlight your subject.
• Stable setup. Use a tripod or stabilizer to keep your camera steady. Shaky footage can distract viewers and reduce the quality of your video.

 

Create engaging visuals

• Screen recording. If your tutorial involves software or online tools, use screen recording software to capture your actions. Tools like Camtasia, OBS Studio, and ScreenFlow are excellent for this.
• Visual aids. Add visual aids like images, graphics, and animations to make your tutorial more engaging. Tools like Renderforest and Adobe Captivate offer great options for adding these elements.
• Text and annotations. Highlight key points and steps with text overlays and annotations. This reinforces important information and makes your tutorial easier to follow.

 

Keep it concise and focused

• Precision. Aim for concise and to-the-point videos. Viewers often prefer shorter videos that get straight to the point. If your topic is complex, break it down into a series of short clips.
• Stay on topic. Avoid tangents. Stick to your outline and script so that every part of your video is relevant to the main topic.
• Edit ruthlessly. During editing, cut out any unnecessary content. Keep only the parts that add value to your viewers.

 

Engage your audience

• Personal touch. Use a friendly and approachable tone. Talk to your audience as if you’re having a conversation. This makes your tutorial feel more personal and engaging.
• Interactive elements. If possible, include interactive elements like quizzes or call-to-action prompts. These can keep viewers engaged and encourage them to interact with your content.
• Ask for feedback. Encourage viewers to leave comments or ask questions. This boosts engagement and welcomes valuable feedback for future tutorials.

 

Optimize for accessibility

• Subtitles and captions. Add subtitles or closed captions to your videos. This makes your content accessible to a wider audience, including those who are deaf or can’t hear well.
• Clear language. Use simple and clear language. Avoid jargon and complex terms unless necessary, and explain them when you do use them.
• Accessible formats. Make sure your video player and format are accessible on various devices and platforms. Test your video on different screens to see if it works well everywhere.

 

Promote your video tutorials

• SEO. Optimize your video for search engines by using relevant keywords in the title, description, and tags. This helps your video appear in search results and attract more viewers.
• Social media. Share your tutorial video on social media platforms. Engaging with your audience on these platforms can drive traffic to your video and expand its reach.
• Embed and share. Embed your video on your website or blog. This enhances your site’s content and provides additional value to your visitors.

 

Analyze and improve

• Analytics. Use analytics tools to track your tutorial videos’ performance. Platforms like YouTube provide insights into viewer engagement, watch time, and demographics.
• Feedback loop. Pay attention to viewer feedback and comments. Use this information to improve your future videos. Constant improvement based on feedback helps you create better tutorials over time.

 

Examples of great tutorial videos 

If you’re looking to create how-to videos, what better place to draw inspiration for your content than from successful ones out there? Here are some instructional video examples you should check out:

 

Warm Toned 90s SuperModel Makeup | Hung Vanngo

 

In this tutorial, Hung Vanngo, a celebrity makeup artist, takes you back to the glamorous 90s with a warm-toned supermodel makeup look. Featuring step-by-step guidance, Hung covers everything from skin prep to achieving the perfect smoky eye and bold lip combo. 

His friendly and engaging approach, along with personal anecdotes and professional insights, makes it feel like a one-on-one session. By the end, you’ll feel confident and ready to channel your inner supermodel while enjoying the nostalgic vibe of the 90s.

 

NAYEON – ‘ABCD’ – Dance Tutorial – SLOW MUSIC + MIRROR (Chorus)

 

In this dance tutorial, LEIA breaks down the catchy ‘ABCD’ chorus by NAYEON into easy-to-follow steps. Featuring a slow-paced, mirrored format, this video is perfect for both beginners and seasoned dancers. LEIA’s energetic and friendly teaching style guarantees you won’t miss a beat, while the slowed-down music helps you catch every move. By the end, you’ll have the dance mastered and feel like a K-pop star.

 

Learn How to Draw for Beginners – Episode 1

 

In this tutorial, Brad’s Art School introduces you to the basics of drawing. With simple instructions on using basic shapes like squares, circles, and triangles, this first episode is perfect for absolute beginners. Brad’s friendly and patient teaching style helps you understand how these simple shapes form the foundation of more complex drawings. By the end of this session, you’ll be amazed at your progress and excited to continue your artistic journey.

 

Tutorial videos: why use them? 

Creating video tutorials might seem challenging at first, but with the right approach, it can be a fun and rewarding experience. Remember, it’s all about connecting with your audience and making the learning process enjoyable. 

Start with a clear plan, use engaging visuals, and don’t forget to inject your personality into the video. With these tips and a little creativity, you’ll be well on your way to producing tutorial videos that educate, entertain, and inspire. So grab your camera, get filming, and let your expertise shine through—your audience is waiting.

 

 

Related reading:

• How to make educational videos
• 31 explainer video templates to engage and educate
• Animated videos for business
• The 16 best animation apps of 2024

 

How to make a tutorial video FAQ

What is a tutorial video?

A tutorial video is an effective way to teach someone how to do something using both visuals and sound. Instead of just reading instructions, you can watch a video that clearly shows each step. Tutorials break down information into easy-to-follow steps, making it simpler for everyone to understand and apply what they’ve learned.

These videos are perfect for learning all sorts of things, from simple tasks like changing a tire to more complex skills like mastering software programs. You can use Renderforest to create professional-looking tutorial videos that make learning new skills straightforward and enjoyable. 

 

How are tutorial videos made?

Creating a tutorial video involves a few key steps, and it all starts with planning. First, you need to decide what you want to teach and outline the steps. Then, gather any materials or tools you’ll need for the demonstration.

Next, you’ll want to record the video. You can use a camera, a smartphone, or screen recording software if you’re showing how to use a computer program. You can also use Renderforest to create high-quality videos with built-in tools.

After recording, it’s time to edit. Editing software helps you trim unnecessary parts, add text, adjust the color, and insert music or voiceovers. This step ensures your video is clear and engaging. You can also use features like AI text-to-speech generation or add a watermark for a professional touch.

Finally, preview your video to make sure everything looks great before exporting and sharing it. Whether you’re uploading to YouTube, sharing on social media, or embedding it on your website, a well-made tutorial video can make complex tasks easy to understand.

 

Is a tutorial video a vlog?

While both involve video content, tutorial videos and vlogs serve different purposes. A tutorial or instructional video focuses on instructing viewers on specific tasks or knowledge, providing clear and structured guidance. For example, a tutorial video on using graphic design software would focus on step-by-step instructions and tips. 

On the other hand, a vlog (video blog) typically showcases a person’s daily life, experiences, or opinions in a more informal and personal style. It aims to entertain or connect with viewers on a personal level.

Tutorial videos are meant to educate and empower viewers with practical skills or knowledge. As for vlogs, they often focus on storytelling and personal insights to engage and amuse audiences.