Our attention spans are so short! To cut though, you need to judo grab the mind and pull them in.
Yes, it’s clear chort-form videos have become a dominant form of content consumption.
Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts have made it easier than ever to share your message with a global audience in just a matter of seconds.
But in a sea of endless content, how can you make your short-form videos stand out?
The answer lies in a simple yet effective formula: H2E2.
What is the H2E2 formula?
The structure to create a great short form video can be broken into four parts:
- Hook
- Hammer
- Example
- Explanation
Here’s how they work!
1. The Hook: Capture attention
The first few seconds of your short-form video are crucial. This is where you must grab your audience’s attention and keep them from scrolling past your content.
The hook should be concise, intriguing, and directly related to the topic you plan to cover.
It can take many forms:
- A question: “Ever wondered how astronauts brush their teeth in space?”
- A surprising fact: “Did you know that honey never spoils?”
- A bold statement: “I’m about to reveal the secret to happiness.”
Whatever you choose, make sure it sparks curiosity and makes viewers want to continue watching.
2. Hammer: Add impact or entertainment
The Hammer is the approach you can take after the hook. It’s a way of re-hooking you’re audience so they don’t disappear.
The choice depends on your content and audience.
If your video deals with a serious or thought-provoking topic, use the Hammer technique to drive your point home.
This involves delivering a powerful message or showcasing the impact of your topic. It can be emotional, intense, or simply strongly assertive.
For instance, if your video is about environmental conservation, you might show a devastated landscape to emphasize the urgency of the issue.
If it’s less serious, you can use humour. This is an excellent way to engage viewers quickly.
A well-placed joke, a funny anecdote, or even just a witty comment can break the ice and keep your audience entertained.
Humour can be universal, making it a great choice for a wide range of topics.
3. Example: Illustrate your point
The Example part of the formula is all about providing real-world context to your topic.
This is where you show, not just tell. Use a relatable story, a quick demonstration, or a case study to illustrate your point.
Examples make your content tangible and relatable to your audience.
For instance, if you’re making a video about time management, you might share a personal anecdote about how a particular technique helped you complete a challenging project ahead of schedule.
4. Explanation: Deliver value
Finally, it’s time to explain the main message or takeaway of your video.
This is where you tie everything together and offer value to your audience. Use clear and concise language to convey your message.
Be sure to answer the question or address the topic you posed in your hook.
For example, if your video is about time management, you could explain the technique you mentioned in the Example section in more detail and discuss its benefits.
Putting it all together: A practical example
Let’s say you’re creating a short-form video about the benefits of daily meditation:
- Hook: “Wanna know the secret to a clear mind?”
- Humour: A quick, lighthearted joke about stress.
- Example: Share a 10-second clip of how you meditate.
- Explanation: Explain the effects of daily meditation on stress reduction. Encourage viewers to try it themselves.
Final thoughts on this video formula
The H2E2 formula is a powerful tool for creating engaging and memorable short-form videos.
It captures attention, adds impact, provides real-world context, and delivers valuable information—all in a matter of seconds.
By mastering this formula, you can create content that not only grabs viewers’ attention but also leaves a lasting impression, making your short videos stand out.
So, whether you’re sharing knowledge, telling stories, or simply selling, remember the H2E2 formula to create content that shines.
