Search Optimization

YouTube SEO Checklist

Optimize every video for search discovery and higher rankings.

1Keyword Research

Identified primary keyword for video topicChecked search volume and competition levelFound 2-3 long-tail keyword variationsAnalyzed top 3 ranking videos for the keywordConfirmed keyword aligns with searcher intent

2Title Optimization

Primary keyword appears in first 40 charactersTitle is under 60 characters (mobile-friendly)Title creates curiosity or promises specific valueTitle accurately represents video content (no clickbait)Title format tested: number, question, how-to, or result-based

3Description SEO

Primary keyword in first sentence naturallyFirst 150 characters are compelling and clickableSecondary keywords included throughout descriptionVideo explains what title promises (alignment)Timestamps/chapters included for videos over 8 minutesRelevant internal links to other videosExternal links provide additional valueHashtags (max 3) include broad and specific terms

4Tag Strategy

First tag is primary or close variation of main keyword5-8 total tags (quality over quantity)Tags include primary keyword variationsTags include secondary/related keywordsChannel name included as a tagBroad category tag includedNo irrelevant or spammy tags

5Thumbnail & CTR

Thumbnail complements title (creates curiosity together)Thumbnail has high contrast colors that stand outText on thumbnail is readable at thumbnail sizeThumbnail accurately represents video contentThumbnail style is consistent with brandA/B tested different thumbnail options when possible

6Engagement Signals

Hook in first 15 seconds delivers on title promiseContent delivers value throughout (no fluff)End screen drives viewers to more contentPinned comment asks question to drive engagementCards added at strategic momentsClear CTA (subscribe, like, watch more) included

7Technical SEO

Video category selected correctlyVideo language selected accuratelyRecording date declared if applicableLicense set appropriatelyCaptions or subtitles available (accessibility + SEO)Video is embeddable (allows external sharing)

SEO Priority Order

1Title + Thumbnail: Primary factor for CTR

2Watch Time: Most important ranking signal

3Engagement: Likes, comments, shares

4Metadata: Tags, description, category

More Checklists

Video Upload Checklist

Thumbnail Design Checklist

Monetization Checklist

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