The 5-Second Test: Does Your Video Pass?

You have about five seconds.

That’s how long your video has to convince someone to keep watching. In a world of endless scrolling, those first few moments are everything. So, how do you make them count?

We use something we call the “5-Second Test.” It’s a simple but powerful way to check if a video’s opening is doing its job.

What is the 5-Second Test?

Show someone the first five seconds of your video with the sound off. Then, ask them three questions:

1. What is this about?
2. Who is it for?
3. What feeling do you get?

If they can’t give you a clear answer, the opening isn’t working hard enough.

Why It Matters

A strong opening does more than just keep people watching. It frames the entire story. It sets a tone, creates a question in the viewer’s mind, and promises that watching the rest will be worth their time.

Whether it’s a stunning visual, a compelling piece of text, or the look on someone’s face, those first five seconds are your handshake with the audience. Make it a firm one.