Master YouTube Watch Time: Hooks, Retention & Strategy
This class teaches learners how to create engaging YouTube videos that keep viewers watching. Topics: crafting strong openings, maintaining audience interest, using pattern interrupts, optimizing for discoverability, and analyzing data.
Deeter
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(9)
What's included
2 pre-recorded lessons
2 weeks
of teacher support1 year access
to the contentClass Experience
Beginner Level
Getting people to click on your video is just the first step—keeping them watching is what really makes a successful YouTube channel. This class teaches learners the key strategies that top creators use to increase audience retention, maintain engagement, and optimize content for maximum watch time. Learners will explore how to structure their videos for engagement, use pacing and editing techniques to keep viewers interested, and understand the role of YouTube’s algorithm in recommending content. They will also learn how to analyze audience retention data and make adjustments to improve future videos. This is an interactive, discussion-based class where learners will: 🎬 Analyze real YouTube examples to see what works (and what doesn’t). 📊 Explore audience retention graphs and analytics to track viewer behavior. 🗣️ Discuss engagement techniques and learn how to apply them to their own content. 💡 Ask questions and receive feedback on their ideas. The class will be taught using slides, real-world case studies, and hands-on discussions to give learners a practical understanding of how to keep viewers engaged and improve their content strategy. Whether they are just starting out or looking to refine their approach, learners will leave with actionable techniques to increase watch time and grow their YouTube channel.
Learning Goals
Hook Viewers in the First 15 Seconds – Learn how to create compelling introductions that grab attention and keep viewers watching.Maintain Engagement Throughout a Video – Use storytelling techniques, pacing, and transitions to hold audience interest.
Syllabus
2 Lessons
over 2 WeeksLesson 1:
Part 1: Hooking Viewers & Keeping Them Engaged
The first few seconds of your video are critical—if viewers aren’t hooked, they’ll click away! In this lesson, you’ll learn how to grab attention in the first 15 seconds, use pattern interrupts to keep viewers engaged, and structure videos for maximum watch time. We’ll explore real examples from top YouTubers and discuss the strategies they use to keep audiences watching until the end. 20 mins of video lessons
Lesson 2:
Part 2: Audience Interaction, Analytics & Optimization
Once you’ve captured attention, how do you keep people coming back for more? In this lesson, we’ll cover how to engage your audience with comments, polls, and call-to-actions, optimize your video metadata for discoverability, and analyze YouTube retention metrics to improve future videos. You’ll also learn common pitfalls to avoid and how to balance consistency with quality for long-term success. 21 mins of video lessons
Other Details
Parental Guidance
This class discusses YouTube engagement strategies and introduces YouTube Analytics as a tool for improving content. No account is required, but learners may choose to explore analytics outside of class if they have a YouTube channel. Parents may wish to discuss online safety, responsible content creation, and community interaction with their learners.
Pre-Requisites
Prerequisites (Optional):
* Basic familiarity with YouTube and video creation.
* Interest in improving audience engagement and watch time.
* No prior experience with YouTube analytics needed—this class will introduce key insights!
Supply List
Optional Supplies: * A notebook or digital document for taking notes on engagement strategies and video improvements. * Access to YouTube Analytics (optional) for learners who already have a channel and want to review their retention data. * A YouTube account (optional) for exploring audience interaction features like comments, polls, and community posts.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
Sources Used in This Class:
* YouTube Analytics Help Center (https://support.google.com/youtube/topic/9257532) – Guides on understanding retention and watch time metrics.
* TubeBuddy (https://www.tubebuddy.com/) – A tool for analyzing engagement, watch time, and video performance.
* VidIQ (https://www.vidiq.com/) – A platform for tracking audience retention and content optimization.
* Case Studies from Successful YouTubers – Examples of engagement strategies used by top creators to improve watch time and viewer retention.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering from University Of Idaho
I have over 8 years of hands-on experience as a successful YouTube content creator, managing a channel with more than 500,000 subscribers and multiple videos surpassing 1 million views. My channel has earned a silver YouTube play button, reflecting my ability to build and grow a thriving online presence. Over the years, I have specialized in creating evergreen content, optimizing videos for the YouTube algorithm, and fostering a loyal community of viewers.
In addition to my YouTube expertise, I have professional experience in the gaming and content creation industry. I’ve worked as a QA Manager, designer, and promotions lead for a gaming startup, helping to shape engaging campaigns and build strong connections with audiences. This background has given me a unique perspective on what makes content resonate with different audiences.
Whether your learner is just starting with an idea or already has a channel, I bring real-world expertise and a passion for helping young creators turn their YouTube dreams into reality.Reviews
Self-Paced Class
$11
weekly2 pre-recorded lessons
2 weeks of teacher support
Choose your start date
1 year of access to the content
Ages: 12-18
