How To Optimise Your YouTube Videos Before Uploading

How To Optimise Videos Before Uploading

Optimizing your video before you upload is just as important as what you do after. This pre-upload checklist ensures maximum discoverability from day one.

Pre-Upload SEO Checklist

1. File Name

Rename your video file to include your target keyword before uploading:

❌ VID_20260310_001.mp4
✅ youtube-seo-tutorial-beginners.mp4

YouTube reads the file name as a relevance signal.

2. Custom Thumbnail

• Design before uploading — have it ready to go
• 1280×720 pixels, 16:9 aspect ratio, under 2MB
• High contrast, large readable text, expressive face
• Consistent branding across all thumbnails

3. Title Preparation

• Write 3-5 title options and pick the most compelling
• Include primary keyword in the first half
• Under 60 characters

4. Description Draft

• Write a 200+ word description with keywords
• Include timestamps (add during editing)
• Prepare all links and CTAs

5. Tags List

• Research and prepare 10-15 tags
• Primary keyword first, then variations and related terms

6. Video Content Optimization

• Say your keyword in the first 30 seconds — YouTube transcribes audio
• Hook in the first 10 seconds — tell viewers what they'll learn
• Pattern interrupts — change angles, add graphics every 30-60 seconds
• Ask for engagement — "like and subscribe" naturally mid-video
• Strong closing CTA — direct viewers to another video

7. Subtitles/Captions

• Upload an SRT file or use YouTube's auto-captions and correct errors
• Captions improve SEO (YouTube can read them) and accessibility

Key Takeaways

• Rename your video file with the target keyword
• Design thumbnails before uploading
• Say your keyword aloud in the video
• Prepare title, description, tags, and captions in advance