Online Course Videos Made Simple: What to Record (and Why)

One of the biggest mistakes course creators make is recording videos before they plan what videos they need. The result? A messy learner experience, low completion rates, and a course that doesn’t deliver on its promise. If you want your courses to be engaging, easy to follow, and impactful, it all starts with a strategic video structure.

Here’s a clear roadmap to help you structure your course videos with purpose so learners stay connected and you stay on track.

Not All Course Videos Are Created Equal

Some videos are the course. Others support it. Some need to be tightly scripted. Others work best when they feel authentic and off‑the‑cuff. Knowing the difference makes your course feel intentional — not thrown together.

Here are the six essential types of course videos every online course should include:

1. Promo Video – Sells the result, not the features. Short, scripted, and outcome‑focused.
2. Welcome Video – Sets expectations and builds rapport. Relaxed and encouraging.
3. Training Videos – Teach the core material clearly. Structured and scripted when needed.
4. Recap Videos – Short 3–5 minute summaries that reinforce key lessons.
5. Check‑In Videos – Motivational and gamified nudges that keep learners engaged.
6. Completion Video – Wraps things up, celebrates success, and invites next steps.

Pair Videos with Smart Learning Design

Your course isn’t just videos. It’s an ecosystem that might include:

• Quizzes
• PDFs & workbooks
• Live training sessions
• Milestone check‑ins and gamification

Your course videos should support your learning pathway—not compete with it. Use short recap videos after live sessions. Use check‑in videos to drive accountability. And don’t just dump a talking head next to a worksheet and call it a day.

Scripted vs. Ad‑Lib Videos: When To Use Each

There’s a time and a place for both scripted and spontaneous video. Use scripted videos when clarity, accuracy, and compliance matter. Use ad‑lib videos when you want warmth, authenticity, or encouragement to come through.

Scripted training videos help learners follow complex ideas. Quick ad‑lib check‑ins, intros, and motivational clips build connection and trust especially in live or cohort‑based courses.

Test Before You Build

If you’re creating a new course and haven’t validated the market yet, don’t invest hours writing scripts and building 80 videos right away. Instead, test before you build. Try simple approaches like:

• Basic landing page offers
• Waitlist or expression of interest
• Small ad campaigns

If people click, sign up, or buy, you know there’s demand and you’ve saved yourself months of work.

Bring It All Together

Video should be a strategic tool in your course design, not an afterthought. When you structure your content thoughtfully and pair videos with engaging activities, you create a learning experience people want to complete.

If you ever feel overwhelmed with course video strategy from planning what to record to knowing where it fits you don’t have to do it alone. I work with professionals to build video content that serves the learner, supports the material, and fits into a scalable delivery model.

Let’s build a structure that works for you — and keeps learners coming back for more.

Related Resources to Help You Build Better Courses

• Must‑Have Business Videos That Boost Engagement
• Master Your Video Journey in 5 Simple Stages
• Studio Upgrades That Make Your Videos Look Pro