Writing video scripts with AI
🕑 15 min · Video Production with AI
Video scripts are where AI delivers some of its most obvious content ROI. A well-prompted LLM can produce a solid first-draft script in 2-3 minutes that would take a human writer 45-90 minutes to produce from scratch. The key word is 'first draft' — AI scripts need your voice, your specific examples, and your editorial judgment. But starting from AI rather than a blank page changes everything.
This lesson covers the complete workflow for writing video scripts with AI: the ideal prompt structure, how to inject your voice, how to structure for viewer retention, and how to adapt scripts for AI avatar delivery systems like HeyGen.
The AI Video Script Framework
Every high-performing video script follows a proven structure. The hook (first 5-15 seconds): lead with the result or the most surprising insight — never start with 'Hey guys, welcome back.' The setup (15-30 seconds): establish what the viewer will learn and why it matters to them specifically. The body (80% of the video): deliver the promised value in 3-5 clear sections. The CTA (last 30-60 seconds): specific, direct call to action.
Your AI prompt should include all four sections explicitly: 'Write a 1,500-word YouTube script on [topic]. Structure: 1) 10-second hook leading with [surprising fact], 2) 20-second setup explaining the viewer will learn [outcome], 3) body in 4 sections covering [topics], 4) 30-second CTA to [action]. Voice: direct, experienced, no fluff. Short sentences for natural delivery.'
Injecting Your Voice
AI scripts sound generic until you inject your specific voice and examples. After generating the first draft, do a targeted voice pass: replace any generic example with one from your personal experience, add 2-3 phrases you actually say, cut any buzzword or overused phrase, and verify every specific claim.
This voice injection step takes 15-20 minutes and transforms an AI script from 'usable' to 'authentic.' Never skip it for audience-facing videos.
Scripting for HeyGen Delivery
If you're using HeyGen or a similar AI avatar system, scripts need specific adaptations. Keep sentences short (under 20 words) — avatars struggle with complex nested clauses. Add delivery notes in brackets: [pause], [emphasis]. Break long explanations into shorter, punchy statements. Split scripts into 3-4 segments (each under 700 words) for HeyGen, which handles shorter clips more reliably.
AI writes the bones of a script in minutes. Your voice, examples, and editorial judgment make it worth watching. Never publish an AI script unedited.
✓ Key Takeaways
- Structure every script: hook, setup, body (3-5 sections), CTA
- Include all four sections explicitly in your script generation prompt
- Do a dedicated voice injection pass: personal examples, your phrases, fact verification
- Adapt scripts for avatar delivery: short sentences, delivery notes, split into segments
- Read generated scripts aloud before shooting — awkward phrases are immediately obvious
Write a Script for Your Next Video
Choose a topic you know well. Write a detailed script prompt using the framework — include the hook directive, body section topics, CTA target, and voice description. Generate the script, then do a full voice injection pass. Time both steps. You'll likely have a publishable script in under 30 minutes.
Recommended Tools for This Lesson
ChatGPT or Claude
script generation
HeyGen
heygen.com
Google Docs
editing
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