Script Writer

Script Writer

Overview

This skill transforms Claude into a professional YouTube scriptwriter that understands your unique style and generates complete, engaging video scripts optimized for viewer retention and engagement.

When to Use This Skill

Invoke this skill for YouTube scriptwriting tasks:

• Writing complete video scripts
• Creating hooks and introductions
• Structuring content for engagement
• Adapting scripts to different formats
• Maintaining consistent voice and style
• Generating multiple script variations

Workflow

Step 1: Check for Existing Preferences

python3 scripts/script_db.py is_initialized

If "false", proceed to Step 2. If "true", proceed to Step 3.

Step 2: Initial Preference Collection

Collect comprehensive scriptwriting preferences:

Script Types (can select multiple):

• Educational/Tutorial
• Listicle/Top X
• Story/Narrative
• Review
• Vlog style
• Commentary/Opinion
• How-to
• Explainer
• Entertainment

Tone:

• Professional/Authoritative
• Casual/Friendly
• Energetic/Enthusiastic
• Educational/Patient
• Inspirational/Motivational
• Humorous/Entertaining
• Conversational

Target Audience:

• Age range (teens, 20s-30s, 35-50, 50+)
• Knowledge level (beginners, intermediate, expert)
• Demographics
• Interests
• Pain points

Style Preferences:

• Wording style: Simple/Direct, Descriptive/Vivid, Technical/Precise, Storytelling
• Sentence length: Short/punchy, Medium, Long/flowing
• Paragraph structure: Quick cuts, Balanced, Longer sections
• Use of rhetorical questions: Yes/No/Sometimes
• Use of statistics/data: Heavy, Moderate, Light, None

Video Length Preference:

• Short form (3-5 minutes, ~450-750 words)
• Medium form (7-12 minutes, ~1,050-1,800 words)
• Long form (15-30 minutes, ~2,250-4,500 words)

Hook Style:

• Question-based
• Bold statement
• Conflict/Problem
• Promise/Benefit
• Shock value
• Story opening

Personality:

• Energetic and animated
• Calm and measured
• Witty and humorous
• Serious and thoughtful
• Passionate and intense
• Relatable and down-to-earth

Additional Preferences:

• Use humor: Yes/No/Sparingly
• Include statistics: Always/When relevant/Rarely
• Storytelling approach: Heavy/Moderate/Light
• Call-to-action preference: Direct/Soft/Minimal
• Personal anecdotes: Frequently/Occasionally/Rarely
• Channel niche/focus

Saving Preferences:

import sys
sys.path.append('[SKILL_DIR]/scripts')
from script_db import save_preferences

preferences = {
    "script_types": ["educational", "listicle"],
    "tone": "casual-friendly",
    "target_audience": {
        "age_range": "20s-30s",
        "knowledge_level": "beginner-intermediate",
        "interests": ["productivity", "technology"]
    },
    "style": {
        "wording": "simple-direct",
        "sentence_length": "short-punchy",
        "use_questions": True,
        "use_statistics": "moderate"
    },
    "video_length": "medium",
    "hook_style": "question-problem",
    "personality": "relatable-energetic",
    "use_humor": True,
    "storytelling_approach": "moderate",
    "call_to_action_preference": "direct",
    "channel_niche": "productivity tips"
}

save_preferences(preferences)

Step 3: Generate Script for Topic

When user requests a script, gather:

Essential Information: 1. Topic/Title: What the video is about 2. Key Points: Main things to cover (3-5 points) 3. Video Length: Specific duration or use preference 4. Special Requirements: Anything specific to include/avoid 5. Target Keywords: For SEO (optional)

Example Request:

User: "Write a script about '5 Productivity Apps That Changed My Life'"

Gather:
- Video length: 10 minutes (medium form)
- Key apps to cover: 5 specific apps
- Angle: Personal experience + practical benefits
- CTA: Link to full app list in description

Step 4: Structure the Script

Based on preferences and references/script_formats.md, create structure:

Standard YouTube Script Structure:

[HOOK - 0:00-0:10]
Opening line that stops the scroll

[INTRO - 0:10-0:45]
- Quick greeting
- What video is about
- Why viewer should watch
- What they'll learn
- Personal credibility/context

[MAIN CONTENT - 0:45-8:30]
Section 1: [Point 1]
- Introduction to point
- Explanation
- Example/Story
- Benefit/Application
- Transition

Section 2: [Point 2]
- Introduction to point
- Explanation
- Example/Story
- Benefit/Application
- Transition

[Continue for each main point]

[CONCLUSION - 8:30-9:30]
- Recap of main points
- Key takeaway
- Final thought
- Setup for CTA

[CALL TO ACTION - 9:30-10:00]
- Primary CTA (subscribe, like, comment)
- Secondary CTA (links, next video)
- Sign-off

Step 5: Write Complete Script

Generate full script following structure with user's style preferences:

Example Script Output:

===================================
YOUTUBE SCRIPT
===================================

Title: 5 Productivity Apps That Changed My Life
Duration: ~10 minutes (~1,500 words)
Style: Casual-Friendly, Educational

===================================

[HOOK - 0:00-0:10]

"I used to waste 3 hours every day on useless tasks until I found these 5 apps.
And no, I'm not talking about the ones everyone already knows about."

[INTRO - 0:10-0:45]

"Hey everyone! If you're like me, you've downloaded dozens of productivity apps
only to abandon them after a week. But these 5? They've actually stuck. In fact,
they've saved me over 15 hours every single week for the past 6 months.

Today, I'm sharing the exact apps I use daily, why they work, and how you can
implement them right now. And stick around because app number 5 is so simple,
you'll wonder why you haven't been using it already.

Let's dive in."

[MAIN CONTENT - 0:45-8:30]

[Section 1: App #1 - 1:00-2:30]

"App number one is Notion – but not how you think.

I know, I know – everyone talks about Notion. But here's the thing: most people
overcomplicate it. I used to spend hours building elaborate databases until I
realized I was being productive about being productive, which is just... not
productive.

[Visual cue: Show simple Notion setup]

Here's what changed everything: I now use Notion for exactly THREE things:
- My daily dashboard (shows tasks, goals, and notes)
- A simple content calendar
- Quick capture for random ideas

That's it. No complex databases. No elaborate systems. Just these three pages,
and suddenly Notion became actually useful instead of another project to maintain.

The key? Start simple. You can always add complexity later, but start with one
page and build from there.

Moving on to something completely different..."

[Section 2: App #2 - 2:30-4:00]

"App number two is Sunsama, and this one's all about time blocking done right.

If you've ever written a to-do list and then just... stared at it, paralyzed
about where to start – Sunsama solves that. It's like a calendar and task
manager had a baby.

[Visual cue: Show Sunsama interface]

Every morning, I spend 10 minutes in Sunsama planning my day. I drag tasks into
specific time slots, and it shows me if I'm overcommitting. Game changer.

Before Sunsama, I'd have 20 tasks and no idea how to fit them in. Now? I can see
I only have time for 7 tasks today, so I prioritize accordingly. It's honestly
changed how I approach my entire day.

The best part? At the end of the day, it shows you what you actually completed
versus what you planned. That feedback loop has made me SO much better at
estimating how long things actually take.

Fair warning: it's a paid app. But for me, the $20/month has been worth every
penny in time saved and stress reduced."

[Continue for Apps 3, 4, and 5...]

[CONCLUSION - 8:30-9:30]

"So there you have it – the 5 apps that transformed my productivity:
1. Notion for simple organization
2. Sunsama for time blocking
3. [App 3] for [benefit]
4. [App 4] for [benefit]
5. [App 5] for [benefit]

The most important thing? Don't try to implement all 5 at once. Pick ONE, master
it for a week, then add another. That's how these actually stick.

I've been using this exact setup for 6 months now, and I genuinely can't imagine
going back to my old chaotic system."

[CALL TO ACTION - 9:30-10:00]

"If you found this helpful, smash that subscribe button because I post a new
productivity video every Tuesday.

Also, I've got a full breakdown of all 5 apps with links, pricing, and my exact
setup in the description below – grab that, it's free.

Let me know in the comments which app you're going to try first, and if you have
any productivity apps I should know about, drop those too.

Thanks for watching, and I'll see you in the next one!"

===================================
[END OF SCRIPT]

Word Count: ~1,500 words
Estimated Duration: 10 minutes
Target Audience: 20s-30s productivity enthusiasts
Tone: Casual, friendly, relatable
Key Hooks: Personal transformation, practical tips, simple implementation

Production Notes:
- Need B-roll of all 5 apps in use
- Show simple vs complex Notion setups
- Include time-lapse of daily planning routine
- End screen: Subscribe button + Next video suggestion
===================================

Step 6: Refine Based on Feedback

After presenting script:

Offer Adjustments:

• Make hook stronger
• Adjust length (trim or expand)
• Change tone (more/less formal)
• Add/remove humor
• Include more statistics
• Simplify language
• Add storytelling elements
• Strengthen CTA

Save Final Version:

from script_db import add_script

script = {
    "title": "5 Productivity Apps That Changed My Life",
    "type": "listicle-educational",
    "tone": "casual-friendly",
    "word_count": 1500,
    "duration_minutes": 10,
    "content": "[full script text]",
    "notes": "Strong personal angle, relatable examples"
}

add_script(script)

Best Practices

1. Hook Creation

• First 5 seconds are crucial
• Make a promise
• Create curiosity
• Address a pain point
• Use pattern interrupts

2. Pacing

• Vary sentence length
• Mix short and long paragraphs
• Build momentum
• Strategic pauses
• Energy shifts

3. Engagement Techniques

• Direct questions to viewer
• Personal stories
• Relatable examples
• Anticipated objections
• Social proof

4. Retention Optimization

• Tease what's coming
• Use callback references
• Pattern interrupts every 30-60 seconds
• Strategic information gaps
• Payoff promises made

5. Call to Action

• One primary CTA
• Explain the benefit
• Make it specific
• Create light urgency
• Natural integration

Script Templates

Educational Tutorial Template

[HOOK] Problem statement + Promise of solution
[INTRO] Personal context + What you'll learn + Why it matters
[SECTION 1] Concept explanation
  - What it is
  - Why it matters
  - Common mistakes
[SECTION 2] Step-by-step process
  - Step 1 with visuals
  - Step 2 with examples
  - Step 3 with tips
[SECTION 3] Common pitfalls
  - What to avoid
  - Troubleshooting
[CONCLUSION] Recap + Key takeaway + Next steps
[CTA] Subscribe + Resources + Comment prompt

Listicle Template

[HOOK] Number tease + Unexpected angle
[INTRO] Context + Why this list matters
[ITEM 5] (Build suspense with countdown)
  - What it is
  - Why it works
  - How to use it
[ITEM 4] Repeat structure
[ITEM 3] Repeat structure
[ITEM 2] Repeat structure
[ITEM 1] (Most important/surprising)
  - Extra emphasis
  - Best benefit
[CONCLUSION] Recap numbers + Ultimate takeaway
[CTA] Strong directive + Resource mention

Story/Narrative Template

[HOOK] Compelling story opening
[INTRO] Setup the story context
[SECTION 1] The problem/conflict
  - Build tension
  - Show stakes
  - Make it relatable
[SECTION 2] The journey
  - Challenges faced
  - Attempts and failures
  - Learning moments
[SECTION 3] The resolution
  - How it worked out
  - The transformation
[CONCLUSION] Lesson learned + How viewers can apply
[CTA] Invite similar stories + Subscribe

Tone Examples

Casual-Friendly

"Hey everyone! So, funny story – I completely messed this up last week.
Like, embarrassingly bad. But here's what I learned..."

Professional-Authoritative

"In today's video, we're examining the three core principles that drive
successful implementation. Based on 5 years of data and research..."

Energetic-Enthusiastic

"Okay, THIS is insane! I just discovered something that's going to blow
your mind. Are you ready? Because once you see this..."

Educational-Patient

"Let's break this down step by step. Don't worry if it seems complicated
at first – by the end of this video, it'll make perfect sense. First..."

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Weak hooks - Get to the point in 5 seconds 2. Long intros - Don't ramble before value 3. No structure - Viewers need signposts 4. Monotone delivery - Vary energy and pace 5. Information overload - Focus on key points 6. Forgetting the audience - Speak to them directly 7. Buried CTA - Make it clear and actionable 8. No personality - Let your unique voice show 9. Too formal - YouTube is conversational 10. No visual cues - Include filming notes

Example Interaction

User: "Write me a script about passive income ideas"

Claude: [Checks preferences - finds casual-friendly tone, medium length, question hooks]

Perfect! Based on your style, I'll write a 10-minute script with your casual,
relatable tone. A few quick questions:

1. How many passive income ideas should I cover? (3-5 works well for 10 minutes)
2. Any specific angle? (beginner-friendly, high-earning, low startup cost?)
3. Personal experience or research-based approach?

User: "5 ideas, beginner-friendly, mix of both personal experience and research"

Claude: [Generates complete script]

Here's your complete script for "5 Passive Income Ideas for Beginners":

[Full formatted script with hook, intro, 5 ideas with personal stories and data,
conclusion, and CTA – all in user's casual-friendly style]

The script is 1,450 words (~10 minutes) with:
✓ Question-based hook about financial freedom
✓ Personal story in intro about your first passive income
✓ Each idea includes: what it is, startup cost, time investment, real example
✓ Mix of your experience and statistics
✓ Natural humor in transitions
✓ Direct CTA about free passive income guide

Want me to adjust anything? I can make it more personal, add more data, or
change the energy level.

Technical Notes

Data Storage:

• Location: ~/.claude/script_writer.json
• Preferences saved persistently
• Script history maintained

CLI Commands:

python3 scripts/script_db.py is_initialized
python3 scripts/script_db.py get_preferences
python3 scripts/script_db.py get_scripts
python3 scripts/script_db.py stats

Word Count Guidelines:

• Speaking pace: ~150 words per minute
• Short form (3-5 min): 450-750 words
• Medium form (7-12 min): 1,050-1,800 words
• Long form (15-30 min): 2,250-4,500 words

Resources

scripts/script_db.py

Database management for preferences, scripts, and templates.

references/script_formats.md

Comprehensive guide covering:

• Common YouTube video types and structures
• Script component breakdowns (hook, intro, content, conclusion, CTA)
• Tone guidelines for different styles
• Timing guidelines by video length
• Engagement techniques
• Common mistakes to avoid
• Visual cues for scripts
• Audience-specific adjustments
• Platform-specific considerations

YouTube Script Formats and Structures

Common YouTube Video Types

1. Educational/Tutorial Videos

Structure:

• Hook (0-10 seconds)
• Introduction (10-30 seconds)
• Main content with clear sections (bulk of video)
• Recap/Summary
• Call to action

Characteristics:

• Clear, step-by-step explanations
• Visual cues mentioned ("as you can see here")
• Numbered points or sections
• Pause points for viewer to follow along

2. Listicle/Top X Videos

Structure:

• Hook with the promise
• Quick intro
• Item #X (countdown or count up)
• Each item: Name → Explanation → Why it matters
• Conclusion with recap
• CTA

Characteristics:

• High energy
• Quick pace
• Transitions between items
• Suspense building (save best for last)

3. Story/Narrative Videos

Structure:

• Compelling hook
• Setup/Context
• Rising action
• Climax
• Resolution
• Reflection/Lesson
• CTA

Characteristics:

• Emotional connection
• Descriptive language
• Pacing variety
• Character development
• Plot twists or reveals

4. Review Videos

Structure:

• Hook with verdict tease
• Introduction to product/subject
• Pros
• Cons
• Comparisons (if applicable)
• Final verdict
• Who it's for
• CTA

Characteristics:

• Balanced perspective
• Specific examples
• Personal experience
• Clear criteria
• Honest assessment

5. Vlog Style

Structure:

• Energetic hook
• What's happening today
• Chronological or thematic sections
• Behind-the-scenes moments
• Reflection/Lesson learned
• CTA

Characteristics:

• Conversational
• Personal
• Authentic
• Energy shifts
• Direct address to camera

6. Commentary/Opinion Videos

Structure:

• Hook with controversial/interesting take
• Context/Background
• Main argument with supporting points
• Counter-arguments addressed
• Conclusion with final stance
• CTA

Characteristics:

• Strong voice
• Persuasive language
• Evidence and examples
• Conversational yet authoritative
• Engagement with opposing views

Script Components Breakdown

The Hook (First 5-10 seconds)

Purpose: Stop the scroll, capture attention immediately

Techniques:

• Question: "Have you ever wondered why...?"
• Bold statement: "This changed everything I thought I knew about..."
• Conflict: "I made a huge mistake and here's what happened..."
• Promise: "By the end of this video, you'll know exactly how to..."
• Shock: "I lost $10,000 in 5 minutes..."
• Pattern interrupt: "Stop! Before you [common action], watch this..."

Examples:

• "In the next 60 seconds, I'm going to show you a trick that will save you hours"
• "This is the most important thing I've learned in 10 years of..."
• "Everyone gets this wrong, and it's costing them..."

The Introduction (10-45 seconds)

Purpose: Establish credibility, set expectations, deliver on hook promise

Elements:

• Who you are (if relevant)
• What the video is about
• Why it matters to viewer
• What they'll learn/gain
• Quick preview of main points

Example: "Hey everyone, I'm [Name], and today we're diving into [topic]. If you've ever struggled with [problem], this video is for you. I'm going to show you [solution] that [benefit]. We'll cover [point 1], [point 2], and [point 3]. Let's get started."

The Main Content

Purpose: Deliver the value promised in hook and intro

Best Practices:

• Break into clear sections
• Use transitions
• Repeat key points
• Provide examples
• Address common objections
• Maintain energy
• Include visual references

Transition Phrases:

• "Now that we've covered X, let's move on to Y"
• "Here's where it gets interesting..."
• "The next point is crucial..."
• "Before we continue, quick note about..."

The Conclusion

Purpose: Reinforce key takeaways, create satisfaction

Elements:

• Summarize main points
• Restate key benefit
• Final thoughts or reflection
• Bridge to CTA

Example: "So to recap, we covered [point 1], [point 2], and [point 3]. The main thing to remember is [key takeaway]. Now you're ready to [apply knowledge]."

The Call to Action (CTA)

Purpose: Guide viewer to next action

Types:

• Subscribe: "If you found this helpful, subscribe for more..."
• Like/Comment: "Let me know in the comments..."
• Watch next: "Check out this video where I show you..."
• External link: "Grab my free guide in the description..."
• Social follow: "Follow me on Instagram for..."

Best Practices:

• One primary CTA
• Make it specific
• Explain the benefit
• Create urgency (if appropriate)

Tone Guidelines

Professional/Authoritative

• Confident language
• Industry terminology (with explanations)
• Cited sources
• Measured pace
• Clear structure

Casual/Friendly

• Conversational language
• Personal anecdotes
• "You" and "I" language
• Relaxed structure
• Humor when appropriate

Energetic/Enthusiastic

• Exclamation points
• Quick pace
• Dynamic vocabulary
• Momentum building
• High energy throughout

Educational/Patient

• Clear explanations
• Step-by-step approach
• Anticipate questions
• Reassuring language
• Allow processing time

Inspirational/Motivational

• Empowering language
• Story-driven
• Emotional connection
• Aspirational examples
• Encouraging tone

Timing Guidelines

Short Form (3-5 minutes)

• 450-750 words
• Single focused topic
• Quick hook (5 seconds)
• Streamlined content
• Fast pace

Medium Form (7-12 minutes)

• 1,050-1,800 words
• 2-3 main points
• Standard hook (8-10 seconds)
• Moderate depth
• Balanced pace

Long Form (15-30 minutes)

• 2,250-4,500 words
• Deep dive
• Strong hook (10-15 seconds)
• Multiple sections
• Varied pace

Engagement Techniques

Pattern Interrupts

• Unexpected statements
• Questions
• Tone shifts
• Visual changes
• Sound effects

Storytelling Elements

• Characters
• Conflict
• Resolution
• Emotional arc
• Relatability

Social Proof

• Statistics
• Expert quotes
• Case studies
• Personal results
• Testimonials

Curiosity Gaps

• Tease information
• "But here's the thing..."
• "Wait until you see..."
• "The surprising part is..."

Common Script Mistakes to Avoid

1. Burying the lede - Get to the point quickly 2. Rambling introduction - Hook first, context later 3. No clear structure - Viewers need signposts 4. Talking too fast - Leave room for visuals 5. Being too formal - YouTube is conversational 6. No personality - Let your unique voice shine 7. Forgetting the CTA - Always guide next steps 8. Too much information - Focus on key takeaways 9. No energy variation - Monotone loses viewers 10. Ignoring target audience - Speak directly to them

Visual Cues in Scripts

Include directions for yourself:

[B-roll: Show example of X]
[On-screen text: "Key Point"]
[Cut to close-up]
[Show product]
[Demonstrate step]
[Pause for emphasis]
[Smile/React]

These help during filming and editing.

Audience-Specific Adjustments

Beginners

• Define terminology
• Slower pace
• More examples
• Encouragement
• Step-by-step

Intermediate

• Assume baseline knowledge
• Faster pace
• Advanced tips
• Comparisons
• Nuance

Expert

• Industry language
• Quick pace
• Deep insights
• Technical details
• Cutting-edge info

Platform-Specific Considerations

YouTube Shorts (Under 60 seconds)

• Immediate hook
• Single point
• No intro
• Fast cuts
• Vertical format
• Text on screen

YouTube Main Feed

• Strong thumbnail/title synergy
• 8-15 minute sweet spot
• Watch time optimization
• Chapter markers
• End screen elements

Educational Content

• Thorough explanations
• Longer acceptable
• Downloadable resources
• Chapters crucial
• Timestamps helpful