5. Optimize your descriptions

5. Optimize your descriptions We have a complete guide to writing effective YouTube descriptions, which has tips for both individual video descriptions and channels. Here are a few of the key takeaways: Front-load your keywords in the description and title Stick to the 5000-characters limit Create a “contents page” with timestamps that help viewers find what they’re looking for Add links to relevant playlists (more on this later) Include a few relevant hashtags. Be sure to follow YouTube’s hashtagging rules before you post You can also mention keywords in the video itself. But just like with text, people lose attention quickly. Use a couple of keywords during a brief intro for best results. Chillhop Music’s descriptions make the most of timestamps. Cute emojis too!