10 YOUTUBE SHORTS HACKS YOU DIDN'T KNOW EXISTED | How to Optimize YT Shorts & Grow Channel Fast!

Are you looking to optimize your YouTube shorts and grow your channel at a faster pace? In this article, we will share 10 YouTube shorts hacks that you probably didn't know existed. These hacks will help you make the most out of your videos and scale your channel more effectively.

But before we dive into the hacks, it is important to note that if you have never created a YouTube short before, we recommend watching our YouTube shorts complete guide to understand the basics. Once you have a good grasp of the fundamentals, you can come back here and learn how to take your shorts to the next level.

YouTube Shorts Hack #1: Create Shorts from your Longer Videos

Did you know that you can now create shorts from your longer videos? This makes it easier than ever to repurpose your content and work smarter, not harder. To do this, simply go to your YouTube app on your mobile phone and click on your profile photo. From there, select your channel and choose any one of your videos. Click the "Create" button, and select the "Edit into a Short" option. You can then choose the duration (60 seconds or 15 seconds) and position of the clip. Once you're done, hit "Next" and upload your short. This feature is only available for your own videos, so others cannot repurpose your content in this way.

YouTube Shorts Hack #2: Optimize Shorts on your Desktop

You can upload your shorts using either the YouTube mobile app or the desktop version. However, it is recommended to optimize your shorts on your desktop. Once you have uploaded your short, go to YouTube Studio on your desktop and click on "Manage Videos" or "Content." Find the video you want to optimize and click on the pencil icon. Here, you can add a description, tags, and even three clickable hashtags. Adding tags and hashtags helps improve the discoverability of your shorts.

YouTube Shorts Hack #3: Use Green Screen for Reaction Videos

Another exciting hack is the ability to use the green screen feature to create reaction videos. Simply click on the green screen option in the YouTube shorts creator, select the portion of the video you want to use, adjust the positioning, and hit record. You can even add your own commentary over the video. Green screen reaction videos are engaging and can help your shorts stand out.

YouTube Shorts Hack #4: Add Captions to Your Shorts

Adding captions to your YouTube shorts can improve viewer retention and accessibility. While YouTube shorts currently do not have an automatic captioning feature, you can add captions using third-party apps like "Captions." This way, you can create captions with customization options.

YouTube Shorts Hack #5: Schedule Your Shorts

Did you know that you can schedule out your YouTube shorts? This allows you to plan your content in advance and save time. Simply go to YouTube Studio, select the "Content" tab, and change the visibility from unlisted to "Schedule." Pick the date and time you want your shorts to go live. It is recommended to schedule your shorts based on when your audience is most active on YouTube. You can use tools like TubeBuddy to identify the most strategic times to post.

YouTube Shorts Hack #6: Use Emojis in Titles

Using emojis in your YouTube shorts titles can increase your click-through rate and make your videos more engaging. Emojis attract attention and create a sense of curiosity. Experiment with different emojis that match the tone and content of your shorts.

YouTube Shorts Hack #7: Analyze Individual Video Analytics

Analyzing the analytics of your individual YouTube shorts can provide valuable insights. In YouTube Studio, navigate to the "Analytics" section and click on "Content." Select the specific short you want to analyze and look for key moments of audience retention. Pay attention to how viewers find your shorts and the search terms they use. This information can help you tailor future shorts to your target audience's interests.

YouTube Shorts Hack #8: Analyze Overall Shorts Analytics

In addition to analyzing individual video analytics, it is important to look at the overall analytics of your shorts. In YouTube Studio, go to the "Analytics" section, click on "Content," and select the "Shorts" option. This allows you to see how viewers discover your shorts and which shorts perform the best. Look for patterns and themes to understand what content resonates with your audience. Use this information to create more bingeable content and keep viewers engaged.

YouTube Shorts Hack #9: Use YouTube's Audio Library for Background Music

Background music can enhance the viewing experience of your YouTube shorts. However, using copyrighted music for more than 15 seconds can result in copyright claims. To avoid this, utilize YouTube's audio library for copyright-free background music. Simply download the desired song from the audio library and add it to your video editing software, such as InShot.

YouTube Shorts Hack #10: Optimize Video Descriptions and Tags

To optimize your YouTube shorts, make sure to write detailed descriptions and add relevant tags. Think about the keywords and search terms your target audience would use to find your shorts. Include these keywords in the description and tags section to improve your search visibility. Additionally, consider adding two to three clickable hashtags in the description for broader reach.

Keywords

YouTube Shorts, YouTube shorts hacks, optimize YouTube Shorts, growing YouTube channel, YouTube short tips

FAQ

Q: Can I create shorts from my longer YouTube videos?
A: Yes, YouTube now allows you to easily create shorts from your longer videos. Repurposing your content can save time and attract a wider audience.

Q: How can I schedule my YouTube shorts?
A: To schedule your YouTube shorts, go to YouTube Studio, select the "Content" tab, and change the visibility of your short to "Schedule." Choose a date and time for your short to go live.

Q: Can I add captions to my YouTube shorts?
A: While YouTube shorts currently do not have an automatic captioning feature, you can add captions using third-party apps like "Captions." This improves viewer retention and accessibility.

Q: How can I analyze the performance of my YouTube shorts?
A: Navigate to the YouTube Studio "Analytics" section, click on "Content," and select the "Shorts" option. This allows you to see key analytics such as reach, viewer retention, search terms, and more for your shorts.

Q: Can I use copyrighted music in my YouTube shorts?
A: Using copyrighted music for more than 15 seconds in your YouTube shorts can result in copyright claims. It is recommended to use copyright-free music from YouTube's audio library or other licensed sources.

Q: How many hashtags can I use in my YouTube shorts description?
A: You can add up to three clickable hashtags in your YouTube shorts description. These hashtags help increase reach and discoverability for your shorts.