You get:
- a slow 15-second intro on a 30-second platform
- no visual hook to stop the scroll
- generic pacing that loses retention after 3 seconds
- no on-screen text cues for sound-off viewing
- a CTA that feels tacked on
But short-form video is not traditional storytelling.
It is retention engineering.
- First 5 seconds determine algorithm success
- Every 3 seconds requires a new hook or visual change
- Sound-off viewing is often the default
- Pattern interrupts keep viewers from swiping
Without platform-specific structure, scripts die in the feed.
This framework forces AI to think like a viral video strategist, not a screenwriter.
Assume the role of a viral video strategist, short-form content specialist, and scriptwriter for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. Your task is to write a platform-optimized short video script. Before generating the script, analyze: - platform retention patterns and algorithm preferences - optimal video length for the given topic - hook effectiveness within the first 5 seconds - pacing requirements (fast cuts, pauses, zooms) - sound-off viewing needs (on-screen text) - curiosity gap structure - emotional triggers for the target platform - CTA placement and phrasing for action Then generate a complete script with: 1. Platform and duration specification 2. Opening 5-second visual hook description 3. On-screen text cues for every 5-8 seconds 4. Pacing notes (fast cuts, slow zooms, pattern interrupts) 5. Full dialogue / voiceover text 6. Visual direction per scene 7. Sound design notes (original audio or trending sound strategy) 8. CTA in the final 3 seconds 9. Retention analysis: why each section keeps viewers watching INPUTS: Topic: [INSERT TOPIC] Platform: [TIKTOK / INSTAGRAM REELS / YOUTUBE SHORTS] Duration: [30 / 45 / 60 SECONDS] Tone: [EDUCATIONAL / HUMOROUS / PROVOCATIVE / EMOTIONAL] Target Audience: [INSERT AUDIENCE] Hook Type (choose one): [CURIOSITY GAP / PATTERN INTERRUPT / DIRECT ADDRESS / PROBLEM AGITATION] End CTA Goal: [FOLLOW / LIKE / COMMENT / SAVE / SHARE / CLICK LINK] RULES: - First 5 seconds must stop the scroll - New visual or text cue every 5-8 seconds minimum - Assume 50%+ watch without sound - No slow exposition or greetings - CTA must feel earned, not forced
- Always specify the platform first — each has different retention norms.
- Test the hook on real viewers before full production.
- Review the script without sound to ensure on-screen text clarity.
- Match the tone to platform culture (TikTok = raw, Reels = polished, Shorts = search-driven).
- Iterate on the CTA — small wording changes shift conversion significantly.
Topic: How to remove a background in Photoshop in under 60 seconds
Platform: TikTok
Duration: 45 seconds
Tone: Educational + fast-paced
Target Audience: Beginner designers and content creators
Hook Type: Problem agitation (“Tired of messy cutouts?”)
End CTA Goal: Save and follow
This framework improves outcomes by forcing:
- platform-specific retention mechanics
- sound-off visual communication
- sub-5-second commitment loops
- pacing engineered for swipe behavior
- purposeful CTA psychology
Great short-form scripts are not written — they are engineered for feed survival.
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