Stop Writing Scripts From Scratch: AI Prompt Template That Works
I used to stare at a blank page for 20 minutes before writing a single word of a script. Not because I didn't know what to say — but because there's something paralyzing about a blinking cursor on an empty document.
The fix was embarrassingly simple: a prompt template. I now use the same structure for every script, and the blank page problem is gone. Here's the exact template I use.
The Master Prompt
I keep this saved in a text file and paste it into ChatGPT for every script:
ROLE: Professional video script writer for YouTube/TikTok.
TONE: Conversational, energetic, like explaining to a smart friend.
FORMAT: 60-90 second script for short-form video.
TOPIC: [fill in]
TARGET AUDIENCE: [fill in]
UNIQUE ANGLE: [what makes my take different?]
STRUCTURE:
1. Hook (3 seconds) — start with a bold statement, question, or surprising fact
2. Problem (10 seconds) — why this matters to the viewer
3. Solution part 1 (15 seconds) — first actionable tip
4. Solution part 2 (15 seconds) — second actionable tip
5. Solution part 3 (15 seconds) — third actionable tip
6. Conclusion (10 seconds) — summary + call to action
REQUIREMENTS:
- Mark [B-ROLL] where footage should appear
- Mark [PAUSE] for dramatic beats
- Use contractions and casual language
- Include one specific number or stat
- End sentence with a CTA that feels natural, not salesy
Why This Works
Three reasons:
- It gives the AI constraints. Without constraints, AI generates generic content. With precise constraints, it generates structured content that follows a proven format.
- It makes you specify your angle. The "Unique Angle" field forces you to think before the AI writes. If you can't define your angle, the AI can't either.
- It's repeatable. Once you have a template that works, you can produce 5 scripts in 10 minutes. Fill in the blanks, generate, edit, done.
Real Example: Before and After
Bad prompt: "Write a script about AI tools for creators."
Result: Generic, 400 words of platitudes. "AI is changing the world." "Creators need to adapt." Nothing useful.
Good prompt (using template): "TOPIC: 3 free AI tools that save me 10 hours per week. AUDIENCE: Beginner YouTubers with zero budget. ANGLE: I tested 20 tools, only these 3 made the cut."
Result: Specific, structured, personal. Includes tool names, specific time savings, and my testing methodology. Ready to use after minor edits.
Adapt It for Different Formats
- Long-form YouTube (8-15 min): Expand to 6-8 sections. Add "research deep-dive" section. Include more B-roll cues.
- TikTok/Reels (15-60 sec): Cut to 3 sections max. Make hook stronger. No B-roll, all on-screen text and jumps.
- Podcast script: Add host/guest dynamic markers. Include ad break points. More conversational, fewer cuts.
This template took me about 3 months of iteration to get right. Feel free to steal it, tweak it, and make it yours. That's what templates are for.