how to find tags for youtube videos

Writing effective tags and a description for your YouTube video or Shorts is crucial for helping YouTube understand your content, improving search rankings, and increasing discoverability. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to craft both for maximum impact:

1. How to Write Tags for YouTube Videos/Shorts

Tags help YouTube’s algorithm understand the context of your video and ensure it reaches the right audience. Here’s how to write effective tags:

a. Focus on Relevant Keywords

• Primary Keywords: Start by including the main keywords that directly describe the video content. For example, if your video is about “How to Make Pancakes,” your primary tag should be “how to make pancakes” or “pancake recipe”.
• Secondary Keywords: Add related keywords that people may use when searching for content similar to yours. For example: “easy pancake recipe”, “fluffy pancakes”, “breakfast recipes”.
• Long-Tail Keywords: These are more specific and less competitive. For example: “how to make fluffy pancakes from scratch”.
• Synonyms: Use synonyms or variations of your main keywords. For example, for the “pancake” video, you could also include “pancake cooking tips” or “how to cook pancakes”.
• Related Topics: Include tags related to the broader topic of your video. For example, “cooking tutorials”, “how-to recipes”, or “breakfast ideas”.

b. Use Popular and Trending Tags (If Applicable)

• Trending Tags: If your video is about something timely or trending (e.g., related to a popular event, holiday, or viral trend), include those tags. For example, if you’re making a pancake recipe for National Pancake Day, use tags like “National Pancake Day” or “Pancake Day recipes”.

c. Don’t Overload on Tags

• YouTube allows you to add up to 500 characters worth of tags. It’s best to use that space efficiently, without overstuffing. Use 10–15 tags that are most relevant to your content.

d. Use Tags for YouTube Shorts

• For Shorts, use the tag #shorts in one of your tags or in your title/description. This helps YouTube categorize it correctly as a short-form video.

Tag Example for Pancake Recipe Video:

• Primary Tag: “how to make pancakes”
• Secondary Tags: “easy pancake recipe”, “fluffy pancakes”, “breakfast recipes”, “pancake recipe tutorial”
• Long-Tail Tags: “how to make fluffy pancakes from scratch”, “simple pancake recipe for beginners”
• Trending Tags: “National Pancake Day”, “pancake day recipe”
• Related Tags: “cooking tutorials”, “how-to recipes”, “morning meals”

2. How to Write a Description for YouTube Videos/Shorts

A well-written description is key to helping YouTube understand your video’s context and relevance for search. It also provides viewers with key details about what to expect.

a. Write a Compelling Introduction (First 150–200 Characters)

• First Impressions Matter: The first 150 characters of your description appear in search results, so it’s crucial to make them count. This is the part that viewers see before they click on your video.
• Include Main Keywords Early: In the first 2–3 sentences, use your primary keywords naturally. For example:
  “Learn how to make delicious fluffy pancakes from scratch with this easy step-by-step pancake recipe tutorial.”

b. Provide a Detailed Overview

• Describe What the Video Covers: In the following sentences, expand on the main points covered in your video. Mention key steps or what viewers will learn.
  “In this video, I’ll show you how to mix the ingredients, cook the pancakes perfectly, and even add optional toppings like berries and syrup.”
• Be Specific: Avoid vague descriptions. Viewers should know exactly what to expect when they click on your video.

c. Include Keywords Naturally

• Don’t just stuff keywords into your description. Use them naturally, and ensure that the description accurately reflects the content of the video. You can also include related keywords that viewers might search for.
  Example: “This easy pancake recipe is perfect for breakfast, and I’ll also show you how to make pancakes without eggs for vegan options.”

d. Add Links to Related Content

• Promote other videos: You can link to other related videos or playlists on your channel.
  Example: “Check out my other recipe tutorials: [link to playlist].”
• Encourage subscriptions: Mention in the description that viewers should subscribe to your channel for more content.
  Example: “For more delicious breakfast recipes, don’t forget to hit that subscribe button!”

e. Include a Call to Action

• At the end of your description, encourage your viewers to take action. Ask them to like, comment, and subscribe.
  Example: “If you enjoyed this recipe, please give it a thumbs up, leave a comment below, and subscribe for more weekly cooking tutorials!”

f. Use Hashtags in the Description (for both Videos & Shorts)

• Add relevant hashtags at the end of your description or in the first couple of lines. Hashtags help viewers discover content when they search for those topics.
• For Shorts, the #shorts hashtag should be included in your description for categorization purposes.

  Example hashtags for Pancake Recipe Video:

  • #shorts (for Shorts)
  • #PancakeRecipe
  • #EasyBreakfast
  • #FluffyPancakes
  • #BreakfastIdeas

g. Write for Both YouTube’s Algorithm and Your Audience

• Always keep your audience in mind when writing your description. It should inform them, not just optimize for SEO. But, at the same time, you’re trying to make sure YouTube’s algorithm can correctly categorize and rank your video.

Example Description for Pancake Recipe Video:

“In this easy pancake recipe tutorial, we’ll show you how to make fluffy pancakes from scratch with simple ingredients! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time of the day. I’ll walk you through each step to make sure your pancakes come out light and delicious. You can also try variations like adding chocolate chips or making a vegan version.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this pancake recipe is quick, easy, and sure to impress!

👉 Check out our other breakfast recipes here: [Link to Playlist]
👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more easy cooking tutorials every week!

#pancakerecipe #fluffypancakes #easybreakfast #breakfastrecipes #shorts”

3. YouTube Shorts Tags and Description Tips

YouTube Shorts are a bit different because they’re designed for quick, vertical videos. Here’s how to tailor tags and descriptions for Shorts:

a. Use Short, Relevant Tags

• Keep your tags concise and to the point, focusing on the core message of your Shorts video.
• Include #shorts in the tags and title to ensure proper categorization by YouTube.

b. Description for Shorts

• Since Shorts are very short (under 60 seconds), your description should also be concise but still contain main keywords.
• For Shorts, you don’t need long paragraphs. Focus on keeping the description short and relevant. Use hashtags (e.g., #shorts, #recipe, #funny) to increase discoverability.

Example for a YouTube Shorts Description:

Title: “How to Make Perfect Pancakes in 60 Seconds #shorts”
Description:
“Quick and easy pancake recipe in just 60 seconds! Perfect for a fast breakfast.
#shorts #PancakeRecipe #QuickBreakfast”

Key Takeaways:

• Tags: Use a mix of primary, secondary, long-tail, and related tags. Don’t overstuff, but aim for 10–15 relevant tags.
• Description: Start with a compelling introduction using key keywords. Provide a detailed overview of the video’s content, include related links, and add a call to action.
• For Shorts: Use concise descriptions, include the #shorts hashtag, and optimize with relevant tags for better discoverability.

By writing compelling and optimized tags and descriptions, you can significantly improve your video’s visibility on YouTube, leading to more views and engagement. Let me know if you need more examples or have specific questions!