Every day, billions of people use YouTube as their primary source for streaming video content. However, how people consume content on the platform has changed significantly in recent years. Viewers are increasingly turning to video speed control to fast-forward through content they deem too slow, which has led to creators putting in more effort to keep viewers engaged.

This article will explore the reasons behind the shift towards faster video playback and provide some strategies for creators to improve their edits and keep viewers engaged. Whether you're a professional creator or new to YouTube, these tips can help you meet the ever-changing demands of today's audience!

YouTube statistics suggest we should reconsider how we approach video editing.

There is currently a lot of video content available on the internet. As a result, there are literally countless videos on various themes, but not sufficient time in a single day to see them all. When it involves tutorial videos, people usually just want the video to get right to the point without a prelude.

Consequently, YouTube claims that 85% of its viewers watch videos quicker than in real-time, conserving over 900 years of video time every day across its platform. Or, as calculated by YouTube, the equivalent of 113 million times viewing PSY's Gangnam Style.

"Aside from normal, 1.5x is used the most frequently followed by 2x as a close second and 1.25x as third," YouTube noted on its blog. And 1.1x was the most popular speed among perfectionists who want bespoke speeds. “Just a tiny bit quicker, but not by much!"

YouTube's replay speed option has been available since 2010, and it performs admirably, with high-quality pitch correction that keeps speech from sounding like chipmunks. As they strive to squeeze in all of the content they want to consume, people are increasingly employing this functionality, as well as equivalent functionalities offered by their favorite podcast providers. It's easy to see the appeal if you lead a hectic life, and I've been using it more lately, generally around 1.5x.

According to YouTube, viewer patterns alter during the day: "We found that viewers often use playback speeds to either speed up or slow down their videos in the evening, with a spike starting around 11pm in their local time. Meanwhile, users apparently need their cup of coffee before watching videos at faster speeds. In the morning, starting at 6 am, playback speeds weren't used as often, but users started to dabble with faster speeds as their day progressed."

Some users are requesting faster playback speeds beyond 2x, with requests for 3x and 4x options as well!

Strategies to Improve Your Edits

If your business or startup regularly uploads content to YouTube, you should definitely be concerned about viewers playing your videos at faster speeds. After all, you put a lot of time and effort into creating content that people will enjoy, and you don’t want all that to pass in the blink of an eye!

Fortunately, there are several strategies you can use to keep viewers engaged and watching your videos at normal speed. Here are some tips:

Keep it concise

One of the main reasons people play videos at faster speeds is that they find them too slow. To avoid this, make sure your videos are concise and to the point. Cut out any unnecessary content that doesn't add value to your video.

Use jump cuts

Using jump cuts can effectively keep viewers engaged and prevent them from becoming bored. By cutting from one shot to another quickly, you can maintain the viewer's attention and keep them interested in what you're saying.

Add variety

If your videos are all the same, viewers can get bored and start playing them at faster speeds because they can anticipate what’s coming. To avoid this, add variety to your content. This could mean using different camera angles, adding animations or graphics, or changing up the pacing of your videos.

Use subtitles

Subtitles are a great way to keep viewers engaged and prevent them from playing your videos at faster speeds. Providing captions makes it easier for viewers to follow along with your content, even if they're watching with the sound off.

Add humor

Humor is a great way to keep viewers engaged and prevent them from getting bored. By adding jokes or funny moments to your videos, you can keep your audience entertained and interested in what you're saying.

With these strategies, you can improve your edits and keep viewers engaged so they watch your videos at normal speed. Remember, the key to success on YouTube is to keep evolving and adapting to your audience's changing needs and preferences!

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