You're creating a storyboard for a video ad and want to engage viewers. Which of the following is a way to hook and sustain attention?

Analysis of Correct Answer(s)

• Use engaging pacing and tight framing.
  • This is the correct strategy for hooking viewers. Engaging pacing, often fast-paced, immediately captures attention in the critical first few seconds, reducing the chance of a skip. Tight framing, such as close-ups on faces or products, creates a strong focal point and an intimate connection with the viewer. This is especially effective on mobile screens, where details in wide shots can be lost. Together, these techniques make the ad visually dynamic and focused, sustaining viewer interest.

Analysis of Incorrect Options

• Keep visuals low-contrast to avoid overwhelming viewers.

  • This is incorrect. High-contrast visuals are more striking and effective at grabbing attention. Low-contrast imagery can appear muted or uninteresting, causing viewers to tune out.

• Build suspense with a slow pace to start.

  • A slow start is a high-risk strategy for online video ads. Most viewers decide whether to watch or skip an ad within the first 5 seconds. A slow, suspenseful opening is likely to lose their attention before the key message is delivered.

• Set up scenes to be zoomed out so viewers can see all story elements.

  • Wide, zoomed-out shots are not ideal, particularly for mobile-first ad creation. Important details, character emotions, and product features can become too small to see clearly on a small screen, disengaging the viewer.