Class Project: Your Path to Viral Success on Social Media

In this class, we’ll be taking a hands-on approach to creating viral-worthy content. For the project, you'll develop and refine your own short-form content strategy, designed to help you dominate platforms like TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels. Here's what you'll do step by step:

1. Brainstorm 10 Short-Form Reel Ideas

Start by unleashing your creativity and brainstorming 10 potential short-form video ideas. Think about:

Trends: What's popular right now?
Your Niche: How can your ideas fit your content theme while being unique?
Engagement Potential: What will make your audience stop scrolling?

Tip: Use the techniques from the class (e.g., hooks, storytelling, and understanding algorithms) to come up with ideas tailored to your audience.

2. Select Your Top 5 Ideas

Once you’ve brainstormed 10 ideas, evaluate them based on:

Originality: Does it stand out from the competition?
Virality Potential: Could it resonate with a large audience?
Feasibility: Is it something you can execute with your resources?

Choose the top 5 ideas that you’re most excited about and believe in the most.

3. Create a Detailed Plan for Each Idea

For your 5 best ideas, create a plan that outlines:

Content Structure: What will happen in the first 3 seconds to hook viewers? What’s the storyline or sequence?
Visual and Audio Elements: What style will you use (e.g., text overlays, transitions, sound effects)?
Call to Action (CTA): How will you encourage viewers to engage (like, comment, share, or follow)?
Use a storyboard, bullet points, or a written plan to organize your thoughts.

4. Develop a Follow-Up Video Idea

To keep your momentum, craft a follow-up idea for one of your planned videos. This could be:

A sequel or related content to the original video.
A response to comments or feedback from viewers.
A deeper dive into the topic you’re covering.

Project Submission:

When you’re ready, share the following in the class project gallery:

A list of your 10 brainstormed ideas.
A breakdown of your top 5 ideas, with your detailed plans.
Your follow-up video idea for one of the plans.

Feel free to include sketches, storyboards, or drafts of your content if you'd like! Sharing your project allows the class community to provide feedback and inspiration for your work.

Let’s get started! Your journey to creating viral content begins here.

Christopher Hess

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