Creating content that explains your ideas clearly can feel overwhelming—especially when attention spans are short and there’s so much information competing for your audience’s time. That’s where explainer videos come in. These short, engaging, and often animated videos are a fantastic way to break down complex topics into simple, digestible stories.
If you’ve ever asked, “How do I explain what my product or service actually does?” or “What’s a fun way to connect with my audience?”—then you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore what an explainer video is, how an animated explainer video can help your message stick, and share tips to help you get started.
Let’s dive into the world of explainer videos!
What Is an Explainer Video?
An explainer video is a short video, usually one to two minutes long, that explains a concept, product, or service in a clear and engaging way. It can be live-action, but more often than not, it’s an animated explainer video that brings ideas to life with fun visuals, characters, and voiceovers.
These videos are often placed on websites, shared on social media, used in email campaigns, or shown during presentations. They serve as a quick introduction or overview, helping viewers quickly understand what you’re all about.
Why Are Explainer Videos So Popular?
People love videos. They’re easy to watch, more entertaining than reading a wall of text, and they help people remember information better. Explainer videos use visuals and storytelling to educate, inform, or persuade—without overwhelming your audience.
Here’s why explainer videos have become so popular:
- They simplify complex ideas: Whether you’re talking about a tech tool or a business process, explainer videos break it down.
- They grab attention fast: Animated explainer videos can use colors, characters, and sound to draw viewers in.
- They’re easy to share: A fun, helpful video is more likely to be shared on social platforms or passed along in a group chat.
- They build trust: When you take the time to explain what you do clearly, it helps your audience feel more confident in you.
How Do Animated Explainer Videos Work?
An animated explainer video uses illustrated visuals instead of live actors to walk the viewer through a story or explanation. Think of it as a cartoon for your business, product, or idea—but with a purpose.
These videos usually follow a simple structure:
- The Problem: Show the viewer a problem they might be facing.
- The Solution: Introduce your product, service, or idea as the solution.
- How It Works: Explain the key features or steps.
- Call to Action: Tell the viewer what to do next (sign up, visit a site, try a free demo, etc.).
Animation makes this process fun and easy to understand. Instead of talking through technical jargon, animated characters or icons do the talking for you—literally and visually.
Where Should You Use Explainer Videos?
Once you’ve got an awesome explainer video, where do you put it? Don’t let it sit in a folder unused! Here are some great places to share it:
- Your homepage: It can be the first thing visitors see to get an instant feel for your message.
- Landing pages: Increase conversion by giving people a quick overview of what you’re offering.
- Social media: Eye-catching animated explainer videos do really well on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
- Email campaigns: A short video in an email can lead to higher click-through rates.
- Sales pitches or meetings: Help explain things quickly when time is limited.
Tips for Making a Great Explainer Video
Now that you know what an explainer video is and how it works, let’s talk about how to make a good one. You don’t need to be a video expert—just keep these friendly tips in mind:
Keep It Short and Sweet
Most people won’t watch a 5-minute video unless it’s really interesting. Aim for 60–90 seconds. That’s enough time to explain the key idea without dragging on.
Focus on One Message
Don’t try to cram in everything at once. Choose one main idea or benefit and make that the heart of your explainer video. Keep it simple and to the point.
Use a Friendly Voiceover
The voice in your video should feel human and relatable. Whether it’s calm and clear or upbeat and fun, match the tone to your message and audience.
Match Visuals to Your Brand
An animated explainer video gives you a chance to showcase your brand’s colors, style, and personality. Keep things consistent with your overall look and feel.
Add Captions for Silent Viewing
Lots of people scroll through social media with the sound off. Adding captions makes sure your message gets across even without the voiceover.
End with a Clear Call to Action
Always tell viewers what to do next. Whether it’s “Learn more,” “Get started,” or “Watch a demo,” make it obvious and easy.
Real-Life Example: Think About Everyday Situations
Imagine this: You’re trying to buy a new kitchen gadget online. You land on the product page, and there’s a lot of text—but you’re not sure what it actually does. Then you notice a short explainer video. You click play, and in less than a minute, you see exactly how the gadget works, what problem it solves, and how easy it is to use. Suddenly, you’re ready to buy.
That’s the power of explainer videos.
Whether you’re selling a product, offering a service, or just trying to explain an idea, these videos connect the dots in a way that’s fast, fun, and effective.
What Makes an Explainer Video Stand Out?
A great explainer video doesn’t just share information—it tells a story. It hooks your viewer with a relatable problem, walks them through the solution, and leaves them feeling good about what they just watched.
Here’s what sets a great animated explainer video apart:
- Clarity: The message is crystal clear from start to finish.
- Engaging visuals: The animation is fun, polished, and keeps things interesting.
- Good pacing: The video doesn’t rush, but it doesn’t drag either.
- Emotion: Even a business video can make people smile, laugh, or nod in agreement.
Final Thoughts: Are Explainer Videos Right for You?
If you’re trying to get your message across in a way that’s clear, engaging, and memorable, explainer videos are absolutely worth considering. They help your audience understand your value quickly—without making them work for it.
Whether you go for a live-action style or an animated explainer video, the key is to keep it simple, relatable, and fun. In a world full of noise, explainer videos help your voice stand out.
So, next time someone asks what you do, you could send them a long email—or you could just send a one-minute video that says it all.
