[FAQ]

I’ve been working hard to keep viewers engaged until the end of my videos, but I feel like my end screen is a bit of an afterthought and isn’t performing well.

I want to create a reusable template that looks professional and actually gets people to click on my next video or the subscribe button.

What are some of the best design practices in 2025 for creating an effective YouTube end screen? I’m thinking about things like layout, what elements to include, and how to make it visually appealing without being too cluttered.

Any tips would be a huge help!

[Jeff Bullas]

That is a very smart question to ask. A great end screen is a powerful tool for turning one view into many by keeping viewers on your channel.

The goal of your end screen is to give the viewer a clear, compelling, and easy next step. It is your final opportunity to direct their action, so it needs to be designed with purpose.

Here are some best practices for designing an effective end screen template. First, you must keep the design simple and uncluttered. Your background should be clean and on-brand, and should not be so visually busy that it distracts from the clickable video and subscribe elements that YouTube will overlay on top of it.

Second, you need to verbally guide your audience. While the end screen elements are visible on screen, your voiceover should be telling the viewer exactly what to do. For example, you might say, “If you enjoyed this video, then you will love this next one I have picked out for you right here. Also, make sure you hit that subscribe button.”

Third, you must choose your video elements strategically. Do not just let YouTube pick a random ‘best for viewer’ video every time. If your video is part of a series, your primary call to action should be to the next episode in that series. If not, link to a video that is highly related to the topic of the one they just finished.

Fourth, you need to allow enough time for the end screen to be effective. The end screen can last from 5 to 20 seconds. You should give viewers enough time to see the options and make a decision to click, so aim to have it on screen for at least 8 to 10 seconds.

And fifth, you should design your template with the element placement in mind. When you create your background graphic, leave clear, designated spaces for where the circular subscribe button and the rectangular video elements will be placed by YouTube. This makes the final composition look intentional and professional.

In summary, a great end screen uses a simple, branded design to provide a clear and logical next step for the viewer. This should always be supported by both visual text cues on the screen and a clear verbal call to action from you.

Cheers,

Jeff

[Author]

Posts