The Art of Creating Viral Content: Insights and Actionable Advice

The Art of Creating Viral Content: Insights and Actionable Advice

Introduction:

In the digital age, where attention spans are shrinking and competition for views and shares is fierce, creating viral content has become a coveted skill. Whether you're a writer, marketer, or content creator, understanding the key elements that make content go viral is essential. In this article, we will explore the insights from two masterclasses on viral video making and copywriting, and provide actionable advice to help you become a better content creator.

The Four Criteria for Viral Ideas:

According to Jenny Hoyos, a master in viral video making, there are four criteria that a viral idea should meet: novelty, curiosity, uncertainty, and complexity. A viral idea should offer a unique experience, deviating from the norm and provoking curiosity. It should also create knowledge gaps and pose psychological questions to spark interest and engagement.

Beginning with the End in Mind:

In the "Become a Better Writer in 60 Minutes" masterclass, the importance of starting with the end in mind is highlighted. Before writing a single word, it is crucial to determine the desired reaction and action from the audience. What emotion do you want to evoke, and what action do you want them to take? Additionally, defining a single sentence or takeaway that you want the audience to remember can help guide your writing process.

The Power of Openers and Hooks:

Crafting a powerful opener or hook is vital to capturing and maintaining the reader's attention. Instead of burying the lead, start with a provocative statement, a promise, or a curiosity-inducing question. The goal is to create a strong urge in the reader to continue reading the next sentence. Remember, simplicity is key. Writing in a conversational tone, similar to how you speak, can make your content more engaging and relatable.

Intention and Obstacle: The Core of Storytelling:

To create compelling content, understanding the fundamentals of storytelling is essential. Every story revolves around someone having an intention and facing obstacles. As a content creator, it is crucial to establish what your character (or audience) wants and the challenges they encounter. Additionally, establishing high stakes emotions in a low stakes environment can add depth and captivate the audience.

The Art of Simplified Writing:

In today's fast-paced world, simplicity is key. Great writing is about effective editing and clarity. Avoid using complex language or unnecessary jargon. Instead, aim for a writing style that is easily understandable and accessible to a wide range of audiences. Short sentences are great for creating rhythm and variety, while occasional long sentences can add energy and emphasis. Remember, write with a combination of short, medium, and long sentences to create a captivating flow.

Addressing Controversy and Authenticity:

In the age of cancel culture and online backlash, it's crucial to address controversy and maintain authenticity. When faced with a challenging situation, instead of denying, spinning, or apologizing, consider embracing your uniqueness and staying true to yourself. Audiences appreciate genuine content that reflects your true personality. Be weird, be yourself, and let your content be an extension of who you are.

Actionable Advice:

• 1. Begin every content creation process by defining the desired reaction, action, and a memorable takeaway for the audience.

• 2. Craft powerful openers and hooks to captivate and maintain the reader's attention.

• 3. Embrace simplicity in your writing, using a combination of short, medium, and long sentences to create rhythm, clarity, and emphasis.

Conclusion:

Creating viral content requires a combination of creativity, strategy, and authenticity. By incorporating the insights from viral video making and copywriting masterclasses, and implementing the actionable advice provided, you can enhance your content creation skills and increase your chances of creating content that resonates with audiences. Remember, be true to yourself, embrace your uniqueness, and let your content be a reflection of your authentic voice.