The first 1 to 3 seconds

The opening has one job: make a stranger feel they will miss something if they leave. Context can wait two seconds. The hook cannot.

Evergreen

Interrupt, then explain

Pattern interruption is a change in sound, framing, or the sentence they expected. An open loop is a question you do not answer yet. A visual hook is the frame itself: a result, a mistake, a face reacting. A verbal hook is the line. You need at least one. The videos that die usually open with a logo, a "hey guys," or a slow zoom onto a desk.

Curiosity and tension are not the same as lying. "This setting ruined my stream" works if the next sentence shows the setting. "You will not believe this" with nothing behind it trains people to swipe you next time.

Frequently asked questions

Should I show the payoff first?

Often yes. Show the result, then how you got there. People stay to see the path once they want the outcome.