YouTube Explanations of the Shorts Algorithm

YouTube shows how its Shorts algorithm promotes high-quality videos viewers will enjoy rather than ones created with the intention of abusing the system.

In an interview with Todd Sherman, the YouTube Shorts product director, YouTube recently gave producers more information on how their algorithm for shorts functions.

The session attempted to dispel many misconceptions that producers may have regarding the Shorts algorithm and how it differs from YouTube’s algorithm for long-form videos.

In this post, we go into the 11-minute dialogue, which discusses the value of creating content with an audience in mind, what a “view” is, and the tactical reasons behind the length and personalization of videos.

Audience and the Algorithm

Sherman claims that the main objective of the long-form and Shorts algorithms is to connect users with relevant videos.

The adage “don’t think algorithm, think audience” applies to short-form content just like it does to long-form material, Sherman emphasized. He stated, “The audience is the algorithm.”

Since short-form content has a distinct format, the algorithm behaves differently for it. We want [viewers] to be happy with the videos, according to Sherman. However, a lot of what we do in short form is sort of unique and is centered around the short form’s basics.

Ideal for short videos

In response to a question on the appropriate length for a Short, Sherman advised writers to place a higher priority on storytelling than aiming for a particular time frame.

The majority of traffic to Shorts comes through the feed rather than the Shorts shelf, he added, addressing the issue of thumbnail personalization.

The team has therefore opted to forgo providing unique thumbnails in favour of letting producers choose a frame from their movie as the thumbnail.

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